The consequences of unsuspected secondary ovarian neoplasia: a clinical presentation of four case histories.

Secondary ovarian neoplasia is a common clinical entity which represents 3 to 8% of all ovarian tumors. However, despite its apparent prevalence, it remains a diagnostic and management dilemma. The ability to differentiate primary ovarian carcinoma from metastatic disease to the ovary has significant therapeutic and prognostic implications. Four case histories are presented which will demonstrate the necessity of formulating a complete differential diagnosis as well as the need for a thorough preoperative bowel examination.