From the Guidelines
A Brenner tumor is a type of ovarian epithelial tumor.
Characteristics of Brenner Tumors
- Brenner tumors can be classified as borderline (also known as atypical proliferative Brenner tumor) or malignant 1
- They are a distinct histological type of ovarian tumor, separate from other types such as serous, mucinous, and endometrioid tumors
- The 2014 WHO Classification uses the terminology borderline tumor or atypical proliferative tumor to describe these tumors, and malignant Brenner tumor to describe the malignant form 2
- The classification and terminology of Brenner tumors have evolved over time, with the current classification aiming to provide a more accurate and consistent diagnosis 1, 2
From the Research
Definition and Characteristics
- Brenner tumors are rare ovarian neoplasms composed of ovarian transition cells surrounded by dense fibrous tissue 3
- They are usually small tumors (<2 cm) and are often detected incidentally in asymptomatic women 3
- Brenner tumors can be classified into benign, borderline, and malignant variants 4, 5
Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis
- The imaging features of Brenner tumors are similar to those of ovarian fibroma and thecoma, and differentiation is based on secondary characteristics such as signs or symptoms of estrogen excess and the presence of a second ovarian neoplasm 3
- Accurate diagnosis of malignant Brenner tumors usually requires clinical-radiologic correlation, extensive sampling, and immunohistochemical studies 6
- Electron microscopy can be used to assess characteristic infoldings of the nuclear membrane, which can help establish a differential diagnosis of proliferative Brenner tumor 4
Clinical Features and Treatment
- Brenner tumors are usually unilateral and benign, and can occur very rarely in other locations including the testis 7
- Treatment of malignant Brenner tumors is not standardized and may include surgery with or without chemotherapy 6
- Borderline Brenner tumors are rare, with fewer than 60 cases reported, and the treatment and differential diagnoses are still being studied 5