granulosa cell tumor
Rare ovarian cancer arising from stromal cells, often producing estrogen and associated with endometrial hyperplasia.
Full Definition
Granulosa cell tumor is a rare type of ovarian cancer that develops from the stromal cells of the ovary, specifically the granulosa cells that normally surround developing eggs. These tumors are classified as sex cord-stromal tumors and are notable for their ability to produce estrogen, leading to feminizing effects and often causing endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. Granulosa cell tumors can occur at any age but have two peak incidences: in prepubertal girls (juvenile type) and in postmenopausal women (adult type). The tumors typically have a more indolent course than epithelial ovarian cancers but can recur many years after initial treatment, requiring long-term surveillance.
Usage
Usage note: Always assess for endometrial pathology when diagnosing granulosa cell tumors due to estrogen production.
In Context
- "The patient's irregular bleeding was attributed to estrogen production from her granulosa cell tumor." — Clinical assessment
- "Inhibin B levels were markedly elevated, supporting the diagnosis of granulosa cell tumor over epithelial ovarian cancer." — Laboratory correlation