Meigs’ syndrome with elevated serum cancer antigen 125 levels in a case of ovarian sclerosing stromal tumor

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Meigs' syndrome presenting as an ovarian tumor with elevated serum cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) levels is unusual. Only 37 cases have been reported, including three cases of ovarian sclerosing stromal tumor (SCT). Many reports have suggested that the presence of ascites is the major factor inducing mesothelial expression of CA 125. CASE REPORT: An 18-year-old woman presented with massive ascites, elevated serum CA 125 levels, and radiographic evidence of ovarian tumor. The histological and immunohistochemical examinations revealed a benign SCT. CONCLUSION: SCT is a benign ovarian tumor and complete excision is curative. We also review all 37 cases and discuss possible mechanisms of Meigs' syndrome and elevated serum CA 125 level.