Non-Epithelial Ovarian Cancers: How Much Do We Really Know?

Non-epithelial ovarian cancers (NEOC) are a group of uncommon malignancies that mainly includes germ cell tumours (GCT), sex cord-stromal tumours (SCST), and some extremely rare tumours, such as small cell carcinomas and sarcomas. Each of these classifications encompasses multiple histologic subtypes. The aetiology and molecular origins of each sub-group of NEOC require further investigation, and our understanding on the genetic changes should be optimised. In this article, we provide an update on the clinical presentation, pathology, genetics, treatment and survival of the main histological subtypes of the GCT and the SCST, as well as of ovarian small cell carcinomas. We also discuss miRNA expression profiles of NEOC and report the currently active clinical trials that include NEOC.

Automated summary

This article provides an update on the clinical presentation, pathology, genetics, treatment, and survival of the main histological subtypes of non-epithelial ovarian cancers (NEOC), including germ cell tumors (GCT), sex cord-stromal tumors (SCST), and ovarian small cell carcinomas. It also discusses miRNA expression profiles of NEOC and reports ongoing clinical trials involving NEOC.