Bilateral and multinodular signet-ring stromal tumor of the ovary.

Background: Signet-ring stromal tumor of the ovary is a rare, benign sex cord stromal tumor that is typically unilateral. Its distinction from malignant signet-ring cell adenocarcinoma metastatic to the ovary (Krukenberg tumor), is critical.

Case: A 69-year-old gravida 5 woman presented with a 1-week history of right lower abdominal pain. Ultrasonography revealed a 4-cm right adnexal mass. Serum CA 125 and carcinoembryonic antigen were within normal limits. An exploratory laparotomy, partial omentectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and peritoneal washing were performed. Solid multinodular masses in both ovaries were identified that histologically corresponded to bilateral signet-ring stromal tumors.

Conclusion: We report a rare example of signet-ring stromal tumor that is bilateral and multinodular mimicking a Krukenberg tumor. Awareness of this unusual presentation can help prevent incorrect diagnosis.