Squamous cell neoplasms arising from ovarian benign cystic teratoma

Abstract Five cases of squamous cell carcinoma arising in benign cystic teratomas found in postmenopausal patients are presented. Exhaustive tissue sampling is necessary for the discovering of malignancy in this age group. Carcinogenesis is thought to be due to local factors. Carcinoma in situ of a bowenoid type was present in two cases, which suggests an epidermal origin; however, squamous clear-cell carcinoma similar to that of the respiratory tract was also found. Prognostic parameters are discussed attaching special importance to tumor stage and the presence of tumor emboli in capsular vessels.