MR findings of ovarian tumors with hormonal activity, with emphasis on tumors other than sex cord-stromal tumors

Eur J Radiol. 2007 Jun;62(3):317-27. doi: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2007.02.027. Epub 2007 Apr 2.

Abstract

Sex cord-stromal tumors including granulosa cell tumor, thecoma, Sertoli stromal cell tumor and steroid cell tumor are noted for their hormonal activity. However, there are many kinds of ovarian tumors other than sex cord-stromal tumors and tumor-like conditions with endocrine manifestations. Cross-sectional imaging, especially MR, can provide precise features of ovarian tumors and uterine morphological change even in a clinically latent excess of estrogen. In this article, we demonstrate typical imaging findings of ovarian tumors with hormonal activity. We also shortly explain the mechanism of the virilization and hyperestrogenism caused by ovarian tumors and tumor-like conditions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Androgens / biosynthesis*
  • Estrogens / biosynthesis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / metabolism
  • Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial / metabolism
  • Ovarian Diseases / diagnosis
  • Ovarian Diseases / metabolism
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / pathology
  • Ovary / pathology*
  • Sex Cord-Gonadal Stromal Tumors*

Substances

  • Androgens
  • Estrogens