Review: Management of adnexal masses: An age-guided approach

Abstract

Adnexal masses in different age groups may need different management approaches. By elimination of the type of mass that is less likely in a specific age group one can identify the most prevalent group which can guide management. Most important of all, the probability of malignancy must either be identified or ruled out. In view of our ethical responsibility to our patients, do no harm (primum non nocere) and non-maleficience, we must attempt to preserve fertility in a patient of reproductive age, and prioritise the future reproductive needs of the very young or adolescent patient presenting with an adnexal mass.