Yolk Sac Tumor : Gross Pathology

Comments:
Gross Pathology: Yolk sac tumors of the ovary are unilateral, bulky tumors (average size 15 cm) with a smooth, glistening outer surface. They are solid and cystic to predominantly cystic with uniform cystic spaces creating a honeycomb appearance. The solid areas are soft and fleshy with a variegated appearance due to extensive hemorrhage and necrosis. In rare cases, the tumor is completely detached from the ovary and is found in the pelvis, omentum, or the mesentery.

Case History: The patient was a young female who presented with abdominal distension and intermittent pain over last several months. The pain had increased in intensity just before presentation. Ultrasound showed a large solid and cystic mass arising in the right ovary. Right oophorectomy was performed.

The gross specimen was a 25 x 20 x 18 cm tumor with multiple hemorrhagic areas on a tense stretched smooth surface (next image). The cut surface shows multiple small and large cystic areas as well as pink-tan gelatinous solid component. Foci of hemorrhagic necrosis are also present. Microscopic examination showed a yolk sac tumor with characteristic Schiller-Duval bodies.

Case courtesy of: Dr. Sanjay D. Deshmukh, Professor of Pathology, Dr. Vithalrao Vikhe Patil Medical College & Hospitals, Ahmednagar, India.