Definition:
A Krukenberg tumor is a secondary ovarian abnormality in which an ovarian tumor grows in the gastrointestinal tract. These tumors are characterized by the presence of mucin-secreting signet-ring cells in the ovarian tissues.
Diagnosis:
The tumor can be diagnosed through CT scans, biopsy of the ovary and laparotomy.
Treatment:
The Krukenberg tumor is a secondary tumor; therefore it can only be treated once the primary tumor is found and has been removed.
Symptoms and Signs:
Patients with the tumor often complain about pain in the abdomen or pelvis, vaginal bleeding, bloatedness and discomfort during intercourse.
Causes:
The causes for the development of the Krukenberg tumor are either due to lymphatic abnormalities in the ovaries, or metastasis of the tumor cells found in the stomach.
