Differential Diagnosis for Palpable Ovary in Elderly
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Ovarian cyst: This is the most common cause of a palpable ovary in elderly women, as ovarian cysts can occur at any age and are more likely to be detected in postmenopausal women due to the decrease in ovarian size and the increased likelihood of cysts becoming large enough to be palpable.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Ovarian tumor (benign): Benign ovarian tumors, such as serous or mucinous cystadenomas, can grow large enough to be palpable and are more common in older women.
- Ovarian fibroma: Ovarian fibromas are benign tumors that can cause the ovary to become palpable, especially if they grow large enough.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Ovarian cancer: Although less common than benign causes, ovarian cancer is a critical diagnosis to consider, as it can present with a palpable ovary and has a high mortality rate if not detected early.
- Tubo-ovarian abscess: A tubo-ovarian abscess can cause the ovary to become palpable and is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Rare diagnoses
- Ovarian torsion: Ovarian torsion is a rare but serious condition that can cause the ovary to become palpable and requires emergency surgical intervention to preserve ovarian function.
- Metastatic disease to the ovary: Metastatic disease to the ovary from other primary cancers, such as gastrointestinal or breast cancer, can cause the ovary to become palpable and is an important consideration in elderly women with a history of cancer.