Background: Krukenberg tumours (KTs) are rare metastatic ovarian tumours characterized by mucin-producing signet-ring cells, most commonly originating from the gastrointestinal tract. Their clinical presentation is often nonspecific, and prognosis remains poor. We aimed to assess the clinical profile, primary tumour origins, treatment modalities, and outcomes in patients diagnosed with Krukenberg tumours at a tertiary care centre in Central India.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective record-based study was conducted on 18 female patients with histopathologically confirmed KTs, from 2023 to 2025. Data on demographics, clinical features, tumour characteristics, treatment received, and survival outcomes were extracted.
Results: The median age was 49 years, with 77.8% presenting with abdominal distension and pain. The most common primary site was colorectal cancer (33.3%), followed by stomach (27.8%). Bilateral ovarian involvement was observed in 83.3%, and 88.9% had synchronous metastases. Cytoreductive surgery was performed in 27.8%, with R0 resection achieved in 22.2%. FOLFOX was the most common chemotherapy regimen. Partial response was observed in 38.9%, complete response in 5.6%, and disease progression in 22.2%. The median progression-free survival was 4 months (IQR: 3-6), and overall survival was 6 months (IQR: 4-11.5).
Conclusions: Krukenberg tumours most often arise from gastrointestinal primaries with a typically delayed presentation. Despite chemotherapy, outcomes remain dismal without complete surgical resection. A strategic combination of timely diagnosis, aggressive multimodal therapy, and meticulous surgical management offers the best hope for improving survival in these challenging cases.
International Journal of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology
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