Luteoma
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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| Luteoma | |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Luteoma of pregnancy |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Virilization, hirsutism, acne, deepening of voice |
| Complications | Fetal virilization |
| Onset | During pregnancy |
| Duration | Resolves after delivery |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Hormonal changes during pregnancy |
| Risks | Multiple pregnancy, African descent |
| Diagnosis | Ultrasound, MRI, biopsy |
| Differential diagnosis | Ovarian tumor, theca lutein cyst |
| Prevention | N/A |
| Treatment | Usually none required, resolves postpartum |
| Medication | N/A |
| Prognosis | N/A |
| Frequency | Rare |
| Deaths | N/A |
A luteoma is a rare, non-cancerous ovarian tumor that occurs during pregnancy. It is characterized by the proliferation of luteinized stromal cells in the ovary, leading to the formation of a mass. Luteomas are typically benign and resolve spontaneously after childbirth.
Pathophysiology[edit]
Luteomas arise due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly the increased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The elevated hCG stimulates the ovarian stroma, causing the cells to luteinize and form a tumor-like mass. These tumors are usually unilateral and can vary in size.
Clinical Presentation[edit]
Most luteomas are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during imaging studies or at the time of cesarean section. However, some patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain or a palpable mass. In rare cases, luteomas can produce androgens, leading to virilization in the mother or fetus.
Diagnosis[edit]
The diagnosis of a luteoma is often made through ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which can reveal a solid ovarian mass. Definitive diagnosis is usually confirmed by histological examination after surgical removal or biopsy.
Management[edit]
Luteomas generally do not require treatment as they tend to regress after delivery. Surgical intervention may be considered if there is uncertainty in diagnosis or if the mass causes significant symptoms.
Prognosis[edit]
The prognosis for luteomas is excellent, as they are benign and self-limiting. They typically resolve within a few weeks to months postpartum.
