KRUKENBERG TUMOR: OVARIAN METASTASES FROM GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT – A RETROSPECTIVE CASE SERIES

Abstract

Krukenberg tumors (KTs), metastatic ovarian carcinomas of gastrointestinal (GI) origin, frequently mimic primary ovarian neoplasms and pose significant diagnostic challenges. This retrospective case series evaluated the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of confirmed KTs over a defined period. The objective was to characterize the origin, histological features, and metastatic patterns among affected patients. Clinical data, imaging, histopathology, immunohisto chemistry (IHC), and tumor marker profiles were systematically analyzed. The majority presented with abdominal masses and pain, with a mean age of 38.2 years. The most common primary sites were the appendix (35.7%) and gallbladder (25.0%). The most common histology was adenocarcinoma NOS (64.2%), followed by mucinous and signet- ring types. The peritoneum was involved in 75.0% and lympho- vascular invasion was seen in 42.8%. IHC showed robust CK20 (85.7%) and CDX2 (78.5%) immunoreactivity, with essentially universal PAX8 negativity, confirming GI origin. CA-125 was elevated in 66.7% of the patients but varied widely in extent. These findings underscore the importance of extensive histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis in distinguishing metastatic ovarian lesions from primary tumors. Accurate early detection and classification are of utmost importance for therapeutic planning and improved clinical results in patients with KTs.