Renin-producing serous cystoadenocarcinoma of the ovary: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Only a few renin-producing ovarian tumors have been reported, and most such ovarian tumors have been sex cord/stromal tumors. Renin-producing ovarian epithelial tumors are quite rare.

METHODS

A 46-year-old woman presented with hypertension and hypokalemia. Examinations of the patient revealed elevated plasma renin activity, hyperaldosteronism and a pelvic mass. Subsequently, a right ovarian tumor mass was resected. Microscopic observation of the tumor revealed a well-differentiated serous cystadenocarcinoma. Immediately after surgery, blood pressure, serum potassium, plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone levels returned to normal ranges. RT-PCR analysis and immunohistochemical staining of this tumor indicated that it was producing renin.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report of a renin-producing ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma.