Predictive accuracy and reproducibility of the O-RADS US scoring system among sonologists with different training levels

PURPOSE

To investigate the predictive performance and reproducibility of Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) ultrasound (US) system in evaluating adnexal masses between sonologists with varying levels of expertise.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective study conducted between May 2019 and May 2020, which included 147 adnexal mases with pathological results. Four sonologists with varying experiences independently assigned an O-RADS US category to each adnexal mass twice. The intra- and inter-observer agreement was assessed using weighted kappa values. The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value (PPV and NPV) were assessed for each sonologist.

RESULTS

Of the 147 adnexal mases, 115 (78.2%) lesions were benign and 32 (21.8%) lesions were malignant. Considering O-RADS > 3 as a predictor for adnexal malignancy, the predictive accuracies of the four sonologists were excellent, with AUCs ranging from 0.831 to 0.926. The predictive accuracies of O-RADS US by experienced sonologists were significantly higher compared to inexperienced sonologists (all P values < 0.005). The O-RADS US presented high sensitivity and NPV value for each sonologist. With regard to the reproducibility of O-RADS, the intra- and inter-observer agreement among experienced sonologists performed better than inexperienced sonologists.

CONCLUSION

O-RADS showed difference in the predictive accuracy and reproducibility in the evaluation of adnexal masses among sonologists with different levels of expertise. Training is required for inexperienced sonologists before the generalization of O-RADS classification system in clinical practice.

Deep convolutional neural networks for multiple histologic types of ovarian tumors classification in ultrasound images

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate and validate the performance of deep convolutional neural networks when discriminating different histologic types of ovarian tumor in ultrasound (US) images.

Material and methods

Our retrospective study took 1142 US images from 328 patients from January 2019 to June 2021. Two tasks were proposed based on US images. Task 1 was to classify benign and high-grade serous carcinoma in original ovarian tumor US images, in which benign ovarian tumor was divided into six classes: mature cystic teratoma, endometriotic cyst, serous cystadenoma, granulosa-theca cell tumor, mucinous cystadenoma and simple cyst. The US images in task 2 were segmented. Deep convolutional neural networks (DCNN) were applied to classify different types of ovarian tumors in detail. We used transfer learning on six pre-trained DCNNs: VGG16, GoogleNet, ResNet34, ResNext50, DensNet121 and DensNet201. Several metrics were adopted to assess the model performance: accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, FI-score and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

The DCNN performed better in labeled US images than in original US images. The best predictive performance came from the ResNext50 model. The model had an overall accuracy of 0.952 for in directly classifying the seven histologic types of ovarian tumors. It achieved a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 99.2% for high-grade serous carcinoma, and a sensitivity of over 90% and a specificity of over 95% in most benign pathological categories.

Conclusion

DCNN is a promising technique for classifying different histologic types of ovarian tumors in US images, and provide valuable computer-aided information.

Gynecologic Imaging and Reporting Data System for classifying adnexal masses

INTRODUCTION

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic performance of the so-called Gynecologic Imaging and Report Data System (GI-RADS) for classifying adnexal masses.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A search for studies reporting about the use of GI-RADS system for classifying adnexal masses from January 2009 to December 2021 was performed in Medline (Pubmed), Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios and diagnostic odd ratio (DOR) were calculated. Studies' quality was evaluated using QUADAS-2.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

We identified 510 citations. Ultimately, 26 studies comprising 7350 masses were included. Mean prevalence of ovarian malignancy was 26%. The risk of bias was high in eight studies for domain "patient selection" and low for "index test," "reference test" domains for all studies. Overall, pooled estimated sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio and DOR of GI-RADS system for classifying adnexal masses were 94% (95% confidence interval [CI]=91-96%), 90% (95% CI=87-92%), 9.1 (95% CI=7.0-11.9), and 0.07 (95% CI=0.05-0.11), and 132 (95% CI=78-221), respectively. Heterogeneity was high for both sensitivity and specificity. Meta-regression showed that multiple observers and study's design explained this heterogeneity among studies.

CONCLUSIONS

GI-RADS system has a good diagnostic performance for classifying adnexal masses.

Does Combing O-RADS US and CA-125 Improve Diagnostic Accuracy in Assessing Adnexal Malignancy Risk in Women With Different Menopausal Status?

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the individual and combined performances of the Ovarian-adnexal Reporting and Data System Ultrasound (O-RADS US) and serum cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) in assessing adnexal malignancy risk in women with different menopausal status.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients with adnexal masses scheduled for surgery based on their preoperative US and histopathology results between January 2018 and January 2020. O-RADS were used to assess adnexal malignancy by two experienced radiologists. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) were used to compare the accuracy of O-RADS and a combination of O-RADS and CA-125. The weighted κ index was used to evaluate the inter-reviewer agreement.

RESULTS

Overall, the data of 443 lesions in 443 patients were included, involving 312 benign lesions and 131 malignant lesions. There were 361 premenopausal and 82 postmenopausal patients. The inter-reviewer agreement for the two radiologists was very good (weighted κ: 0.833). Combing O-RADS US and CA-125 significantly increased diagnostic accuracy for classifying malignant from benign adnexal masses, compared with O-RADS US alone (AUC: 0.97 vs 0.95, P < .001 for premenopausal population and AUC: 0.93 vs 0.85, P < .001 for postmenopausal population). The AUCs of O-RADS with and without CA-125 ranged from 0.50 to 0.99 for different adnexal pathology subtypes (ie, benign, borderline, Stage I-IV, and metastatic tumors).

CONCLUSION

The addition of CA-125 helps improve discrimination of O-RADS US between benign and malignant adnexal masses, especially in postmenopausal women.

Adnexal masses during pregnancy: diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis

Adnexal masses are identified in pregnant patients at a rate of 2 to 20 in 1000, approximately 2 to 20 times more frequently than in the age-matched general population. The most common types of adnexal masses in pregnancy requiring surgical management are dermoid cysts (32%), endometriomas (15%), functional cysts (12%), serous cystadenomas (11%), and mucinous cystadenomas (8%). Approximately 2% of adnexal masses in pregnancy are malignant. Although most adnexal masses in pregnancy can be safely observed and approximately 70% spontaneously resolve, a minority of cases warrant surgical intervention because of symptoms, risk of torsion, or suspicion of malignancy. Ultrasound is the mainstay of evaluation of adnexal masses in pregnancy because of accuracy, safety, and availability. Several ultrasound mass scoring systems, including the Sassone, Lerner, International Ovarian Tumor Analysis Simple Rules, and International Ovarian Tumor Analysis Assessment of Different NEoplasias in the adneXa scoring systems have been validated specifically in pregnant populations. Decisions regarding expectant vs surgical management of adnexal masses in pregnancy must balance the risks of torsion or malignancy with the likelihood of spontaneous resolution and the risks of surgery. Laparoscopic surgery is preferred over open surgery when possible because of consistently demonstrated shorter hospital length of stay and less postoperative pain and some data demonstrating shorter operative time, lower blood loss, and lower risks of fetal loss, preterm birth, and low birthweight. The best practices for laparoscopic surgery during pregnancy include left lateral decubitus positioning after the first trimester of pregnancy, port placement with respect to uterine size and pathology location, insufflation pressure of less than 12 to 15 mm Hg, intraoperative maternal capnography, pre- and postoperative fetal heart rate and contraction monitoring, and appropriate mechanical and chemical thromboprophylaxes. Although planning surgery for the second trimester of pregnancy generally affords time for mass resolution while optimizing visualization with regards to uterine size and pathology location, necessary surgery should not be delayed because of gestational age. When performed at a facility with appropriate obstetrical, anesthetic, and neonatal support, adnexal surgery in pregnancy generally results in excellent outcomes for pregnant patients and fetuses.

Deep Learning Prediction of Ovarian Malignancy at US Compared with O-RADS and Expert Assessment

Background Deep learning (DL) algorithms could improve the classification of ovarian tumors assessed with multimodal US. Purpose To develop DL algorithms for the automated classification of benign versus malignant ovarian tumors assessed with US and to compare algorithm performance to Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) and subjective expert assessment for malignancy. Materials and Methods This retrospective study included consecutive women with ovarian tumors undergoing gray scale and color Doppler US from January 2019 to November 2019. Histopathologic analysis was the reference standard. The data set was divided into training (70%), validation (10%), and test (20%) sets. Algorithms modified from residual network (ResNet) with two fusion strategies (feature fusion [hereafter, DL_feature] or decision fusion [hereafter, DL_decision]) were developed. DL prediction of malignancy was compared with O-RADS risk categorization and expert assessment by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analysis in the test set. Results A total of 422 women (mean age, 46.4 years ± 14.8 [SD]) with 304 benign and 118 malignant tumors were included; there were 337 women in the training and validation data set and 85 women in the test data set. DL_feature had an AUC of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.85, 0.97) for classifying malignant from benign ovarian tumors, comparable with O-RADS (AUC, 0.92; 95% CI: 0.85, 0.97; P = .88) and expert assessment (AUC, 0.97; 95% CI: 0.91, 0.99; P = .07), and similar to DL_decision (AUC, 0.90; 95% CI: 0.82, 0.96; P = .29). DL_decision, DL_feature, O-RADS, and expert assessment achieved sensitivities of 92%, 92%, 92%, and 96%, respectively, and specificities of 80%, 85%, 89%, and 87%, respectively, for malignancy. Conclusion Deep learning algorithms developed by using multimodal US images may distinguish malignant from benign ovarian tumors with diagnostic performance comparable to expert subjective and Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System assessment. © RSNA, 2022 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Adnexal Masses in Pregnancy

Importance

Adnexal masses are identified in approximately 0.05% to 2.4% of pregnancies, and more recent data note a higher incidence due to widespread use of antenatal ultrasound. Whereas most adnexal masses are benign, approximately 1% to 6% are malignant. Proper diagnosis and management of adnexal masses in pregnancy are an important skill for obstetricians.

Objective

The aim of this study was to review imaging modalities for evaluating adnexal masses in pregnancy and imaging characteristics that differentiate benign and malignant masses, examine various types of adnexal masses, and understand complications of and explore management options for adnexal masses in pregnancy.

Evidence Acquisition

This was a literature review using primarily PubMed and Google Scholar.

Results

Ultrasound can distinguish between simple-appearing benign ovarian cysts and masses with more complex features that can be associated with malignancy. Radiologic information can help guide physicians toward recommending conservative management with observation or surgical removal during pregnancy to facilitate diagnosis and treatment. The risks of expectant management of an adnexal mass during pregnancy include rupture, torsion, need for emergent surgery, labor obstruction, and progression of malignancy. Historically, surgical removal was performed more routinely to avoid such complications in pregnancy; however, increasing knowledge has directed management toward conservative measures for benign masses. Surgical removal of adnexal masses is increasingly performed via minimally invasive techniques including laparoscopy and robotic surgery due to a decreased risk of surgical complications compared with laparotomy.

Conclusions and Relevance

Adnexal masses are increasingly identified in pregnancy because of the use of antenatal ultrasound. Clear and specific guidelines exist to help differentiate between benign and malignant masses. This is important for management as benign masses can usually be conservatively managed, whereas malignant masses require excision for diagnosis and treatment. A multidisciplinary approach, including referral to gynecologic oncology, should be used for masses with complex features associated with malignancy. Proper diagnosis and management of adnexal masses in pregnancy are an important skill for obstetricians.

Characteristics of ovarian endometrioma during pregnancy

AIM

During pregnancy, the ovarian endometrioma generally decreases in size and occasionally ruptures. We evaluated (1) whether and how ovarian-endometrioma size changes from the first trimester to the postdelivery period, and (2) the type of endometrioma more likely to rupture during pregnancy.

METHODS

During an 18-year period (2000-2018), ultrasound in the first trimester revealed ovarian endometrioma in 149 pregnant women at our tertiary institute. Among these, we subjected 138 endometriomas in 145 patients to expectant management (wait-and-watch approach during pregnancy). We compared the cyst sizes in the first trimester and the postdelivery period, and defined a >1 cm diameter size-change as a significant increase/decrease. We analyzed four patients with rupture and characterized the predictors of rupture.

RESULTS

A comparison of cyst sizes in the first trimester and the postdelivery period revealed that the size of 94 (68%), 37 (27%), and 7 ovaries (5.0%), respectively, decreased, remained unchanged, and increased; in 56 ovaries (40%), apparent cysts were no longer present. Of the 145 patients, four (2.8%) required emergency surgery for cyst rupture. Adhesion to the surroundings, an increase in cyst size, large size (diameter of ≥6 cm), and compression due to the enlarged uterus in late pregnancy were factors clinically related to rupture.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately two-thirds of ovarian endometriomas decreased in size during pregnancy (40% disappeared), 27% remained unchanged, and only 5% increased in size. However, 2.8% of pregnant women with endometrial cysts experienced rupture. We characterized risk factors for rupture; however, clinical application requires further evaluation.

Unrecognized Primary Hypothyroidism As a Possible Cause of Hyperreactio Luteinalis

Hyperreactio luteinalis (HRL) is characterised by benign enlargement of ovaries in pregnancy associated with hyperandrogenism. A 19-year-old primigravida presented with breathlessness, abdominal distension and vomiting in the thirteenth week of gestation. Abdominal examination revealed distension of abdomen disproportionate to the gestational age. Ultrasound was suggestive of bilaterally enlarged multicystic ovaries with a characteristic “spoke-wheel” pattern and a diagnosis of HRL was made. Laboratory investigations revealed primary hypothyroidism and elevated testosterone. She was initiated on levothyroxine therapy. Her respiratory distress worsened on the third day of admission for which she underwent emergency laparotomy with cyst aspiration. Thyroid function tests normalized within six weeks after the initiation of therapy and remained normal for the remainder of pregnancy. Serum testosterone levels returned to normal six weeks postpartum. The elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone levels could have contributed to development of HRL by cross-reacting with human chorionic gonadotropin and follicle-stimulating hormone receptors. Hyperandrogenism and ovarian enlargement regresses with levothyroxine therapy.

Adnexal Torsion: Review of Radiologic Appearances

Adnexal torsion is the twisting of the ovary, and often of the fallopian tube, on its ligamental supports, resulting in vascular compromise and ovarian infarction. The definitive management is surgical detorsion, and prompt diagnosis facilitates preservation of the ovary, which is particularly important because this condition predominantly affects premenopausal women. The majority of patients present with severe acute pain, vomiting, and a surgical abdomen, and the diagnosis is often made clinically with corroborative US. However, the symptoms of adnexal torsion can be variable and nonspecific, making an early diagnosis challenging unless this condition is clinically suspected. When adnexal torsion is not clinically suspected, CT or MRI may be performed. Imaging has an important role in identifying adnexal torsion and accelerating definitive treatment, particularly in cases in which the diagnosis is not an early consideration. Several imaging features are characteristic of adnexal torsion and can be seen to varying degrees across different modalities: a massive, edematous ovary migrated to the midline; peripherally displaced ovarian follicles resembling a string of pearls; a benign ovarian lesion acting as a lead mass; surrounding inflammatory change or free fluid; and the uterus pulled toward the side of the affected ovary. Hemorrhage and absence of internal flow or enhancement are suggestive of ovarian infarction. Pertinent conditions to consider in the differential diagnosis are a ruptured hemorrhagic ovarian cyst, massive ovarian edema, ovarian hyperstimulation, and a degenerating leiomyoma. Online supplemental material is available for this article. ^©RSNA, 2021.

Diagnostic performance of GI-RADS reporting system in evaluation of adnexal masses

Background

Transvaginal and pelvic ultrasound are considered the primary imaging modality in evaluating adnexal masses. Gynaecologic Imaging Reporting and Data System (GI-RADS) depends on different ultrasound patterns and criteria adopted by the International Ovarian Tumour Analysis (IOTA) group. The current study aimed to detect the diagnostic accuracy of the GI-RADS classification in evaluating adnexal masses. In this prospective cross-sectional study, a total of 112 adnexal masses belonging to 100 women, age ranged 12 to 66 years old, were included. The study population was recruited throughout the period between January and November 2017. Ultrasound examination was performed to all patients; different US and Doppler criteria were assessed.

Results

Out of the 112 lesions, 36 (32.1%) were GI-RADS 2, 32 (28.6%) GI-RADS 3, 13 (11.6%) GI-RADS 4, and 31 (27.7%) GI-RADS 5. The GI-RADS classification showed sensitivity 97%, specificity 84.8%, positive predictive value (PPV) 72.7%, negative predictive value (NPV) 98.5%, and accuracy 88.4%.

Conclusion

The GI-RADS reporting system carried a high sensitivity in identifying adnexal masses at high risk of malignancy. The increased number of benign lesions misclassified as GI-RADS 4 required additional markers to improve the specificity in GI-RADS classification.

Tarlov Cysts Misdiagnosed as Adnexal Masses in Pelvic Sonography: A Literature Review

Introduction: A Tarlov cyst (TC) is a perineural cyst filled with cerebrospinal fluid that originates from the dorsal ganglion or the spinal posterior nerve root. TCs are usually asymptomatic and incidentally found in the sacral region. Endopelvic extension of TCs is uncommon and can be misdiagnosed as an adnexal mass on gynecological ultrasound imaging.

Methods: We performed a search for all clinical studies of TCs that mimicked adnexal masses that had been published through October 12, 2020. We placed no restrictions on language or year of publication in our search, and we performed searches with the following keywords: perineural cyst, Tarlov cyst, sclerotherapy, management, and prognosis. We included all misdiagnosed cases or cases considered as adnexal masses on pelvic sonography.

Results: We identified 21 cases of TCs mimicking adnexal masses and conducted a comprehensive analysis of these 21 cases to assess the epidemiology, symptoms, initial diagnoses, provisional ultrasound diagnoses, confirmative modalities, sizes, locations, treatments, and outcomes. The 21 cases included 16 symptomatic cases (76%) and 5 cases with incidental findings (24%), and the average patient age was 41.3 years. The initial diagnosis was performed with ultrasonography in all cases. The most frequent misdiagnosis was unspecified adnexal mass. Confirmative diagnostic modalities were MRI only (67%), CT only (5%), and both MRI and CT (28%). Treatments were surgery (33%), conservative treatment (19%), percutaneous intervention (5%), and alcohol sclerotherapy (5%). In two symptomatic cases misdiagnosed as pelvic masses, cystectomy was performed and leakage of cerebrospinal fluid occurred, necessitating repair of the leak. In one of the asymptomatic patients, cauda equina syndrome occurred after alcohol sclerotherapy for misdiagnosed TC. However, the patient improved with no neurologic deficit after 18 months of conservative treatment.

Conclusion: The possibility of large TCs should be considered when assessing adnexal masses in sonography. Since TCs can masquerade as pelvic masses, they should be considered if the mass appears tubular/cystic or multilocular/multiseptate, does not move with respiration, and originates from the sacrum in sonography with or without neurologic symptoms. Accurate diagnosis can prevent medical mismanagement and reduce patient discomfort.

Algorithmic Approach to Sonography of Adnexal Masses: An Evolving Paradigm

BACKGROUND

Pelvic US remains the workhorse for detection and characterization of adnexal masses in most centers worldwide. While the differentiation of benign from malignant masses remains the foremost concern, it is imperative to narrow the differential diagnosis for management of benign masses as well as prognostication of malignant masses. The IOTA group as well as ACR have described a five category classification system for adnexal lesions based on morphological patterns. In addition, a six category risk stratification has been proposed, incorporating the probability of malignancy as well as management recommendations.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1) Understand pattern based approach to adnexal lesion classification and the possible entities fitting into each pattern with the help of illustrations. 2) Classify lesions into appropriate risk categories based on diagnostic algorithms provided at the end of each section.

Ovarian cysts in pregnancy: a narrative review

Most adnexal masses are benign, incidental findings of pregnancy which resolve spontaneously. They may present clinically due to haemorrhage, rupture, torsion and mass effect. Aetiological classification includes ovarian benign, ovarian malignant, non-ovarian, gynaecological, non-ovarian non-gynaecological and an additional subset of pathologies unique to pregnancy. Ultrasound is the first-line imaging modality for the evaluation of adnexal masses. This may be supplemented with magnetic resonance imaging. Tumour markers support evaluation of malignant potential, but interpretation of results in pregnancy is challenging. Surgical intervention requires consideration of gestation, lesion characteristics and presence of complications. Laparoscopy is preferred owing to shorter operative time, quicker recovery and resultant lower thrombotic risk. Post-viability, fetal wellbeing and assessment must be considered. Management of the pregnancy may include cardiotocography, steroids, non-teratogenic antibiotics and tocolytics. In rare cases, particularly related to malignancy, termination of pregnancy may be required to enable immediate management where there are concerns for maternal wellbeing.

Imaging of Benign Adnexal Disease

This article provides an overview of the imaging evaluation of benign ovarian and adnexal masses in premenopausal and postmenopausal women and lesions discovered during pregnancy. Current imaging techniques are discussed, including pitfalls and differential diagnosis when necessary, as well as management. It also reviews the now well-established American College of Radiology (ACR)/Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound consensus guidelines and covers the more recently introduced Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System by the ACR and the recently published ADNEx Scoring System.

Evaluation of adnexal tumours in the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis system in reference to histopathological results

Aim of the study

To retrospectively evaluate how the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) simple rules used in ultrasound examinations estimate the probability of malignant and benign tumour occurrence in the studied population.

Material and methods

The study was performed on a group of 425 patients with ovarian tumours operated in the Clinic of Surgical and Oncological Gynecology at the Medical University of Lodz in the years 2014-2015. Adnexal tumours were rated according to IOTA simple rules, classifying them as probably malignant, probably benign, or unclassified. The results of the study were compared with final histopathological results. The statistical analysis was performed using STATISTICA 13 PL with Medical Pack.

Results

We analysed data on n = 43 (11%) patients with malignant, n = 346 (86%) patients with benign, and n = 12 (3%) patients with borderline tumours, respectively. Malignant tumour patients were significantly older (mean age 61.0 ±11.6 vs. 43.6 ±16.2 years, p< 0.001), had higher BMI (mean 27.3 ±7.0 vs. 25.2 ±5.2, p< 0.05), more pregnancies (median 2 vs. 1, p = 0.001), and higher cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) concentrations (median 251.5 vs. 18.5, p< 0.001) than patients with a benign tumour. Also, they more often suffered from diabetes mellitus (19% vs. 8%, p = 0.02) and arterial hypertension (60% vs. 42%, p< 0.01) than benign tumour patients.

Conclusions

In our study, IOTA performance in predicting or ruling out a malignant tumour was highly satisfactory and similar to that of CA 125. Both the methods may be complementary and used to assess the risk of malignant vs. benign ovarian neoplasm, although the context of other clinical variables may also be important.

The Abnormal Ovary: Evolving Concepts in Diagnosis and Management

Ovarian lesions are common and require a consistent approach to diagnosis and management for best patient outcomes. In the past 20 years, there has been an evolution in the approach to abnormal ovarian lesions, with increasing emphasis on reducing surgery for benign disease, standardizing terminology, assessing risk of malignancy through use of evidence-based scoring systems, and triaging suspicious abnormalities to dedicated oncology centers. This article provides an evidence-based review of how these changes in diagnosis and management of ultrasound-detected abnormal ovarian lesions have occurred. Current recommended practices are summarized. The current literature on transvaginal screening for ovarian cancer also is reviewed and summarized.

O-RADS US Risk Stratification and Management System: A Consensus Guideline from the ACR Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System Committee

The Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) US risk stratification and management system is designed to provide consistent interpretations, to decrease or eliminate ambiguity in US reports resulting in a higher probability of accuracy in assigning risk of malignancy to ovarian and other adnexal masses, and to provide a management recommendation for each risk category. It was developed by an international multidisciplinary committee sponsored by the American College of Radiology and applies the standardized reporting tool for US based on the 2018 published lexicon of the O-RADS US working group. For risk stratification, the O-RADS US system recommends six categories (O-RADS 0-5), incorporating the range of normal to high risk of malignancy. This unique system represents a collaboration between the pattern-based approach commonly used in North America and the widely used, European-based, algorithmic-style International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) Assessment of Different Neoplasias in the Adnexa model system, a risk prediction model that has undergone successful prospective and external validation. The pattern approach relies on a subgroup of the most predictive descriptors in the lexicon based on a retrospective review of evidence prospectively obtained in the IOTA phase 1-3 prospective studies and other supporting studies that assist in differentiating management schemes in a variety of almost certainly benign lesions. With O-RADS US working group consensus, guidelines for management in the different risk categories are proposed. Both systems have been stratified to reach the same risk categories and management strategies regardless of which is initially used. At this time, O-RADS US is the only lexicon and classification system that encompasses all risk categories with their associated management schemes.

Combining A Second-Generation Multivariate Index Assay with Ovarian Imaging Improves the Preoperative Assessment of An Adnexal Mass

Background: To understand the relationship between imaging and the next generation multivariate index assay (MIA2G) in the preoperative assessment of an adnexal mass. Methods: Serum samples and imaging data from two previously published studies are reanalyzed using the MIA2G test. We calculated the clinical performance of MIA2G and discrete imaging features associated with malignant risk. Results: 878 women were eligible for this analysis, 48.3% post-menopausal and 51.7% pre-menopausal. The prevalence of having a malignant pathology was 18%. Ultrasound was the most frequently used imaging modality. The combination of MIA2G “or” ultrasound resulted in higher sensitivity than either test alone, 93.5% compared to 87.6% for MIA2G and 74.2% for ultrasound. The negative predictive value was high: 94.6% for ultrasound, 98.1% for MIA2G “or” ultrasound. MIA2G “and” ultrasound had higher specificity but lower sensitivity than MIA2G or ultrasound alone. Similar results were seen for CT scan when evaluated with MIA2G. Conclusion: MIA2G and pelvic imaging are complementary tests and interpreting them together can provide important information about the malignant risk of an ovarian tumor. For physicians making decisions about a referral to a specialist, the combination of MIA2G “or” ultrasound has the highest sensitivity in predicting ovarian malignancy.

Diagnostic accuracy of gynecology imaging reporting and data system in evaluation of adnexal lesions

Background:

Considering the increasing incidence rate of ovarian cancer in worldwide and the utility of Gynecologic Imaging Reporting and Data System (GI-RADS) in diagnosing malignant adnexal lesions such as ovarian cancer, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of this reporting system in differentiating between malignant and benign adnexal lesions.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, women with suspected adnexal lesions were enrolled. For differentiating of malignant adnexal lesions, Grade II and III of GI-RADS system were classified as low risk for malignancy and Grades IV and V as high risk. Results of histopathologic diagnosis were compared with the results of the mentioned GI-RADS system classification, and the diagnosed accuracy of the system was determined. Patients who did not have histopathologic diagnosis were followed up.

Results:

In this study, 197 women with suspected adnexal lesions were evaluated. Frequency of GI-RADS II, III, IV, and V were 34.5% (69 cases), 38.0% (76 cases), 19.5% (39 cases), and 6.5% (13 cases), respectively. According to the low- and high-risk classification of GI-RADS, 72.5% were classified as GI-RADS II and III and 26% as GI-RADS IV and V, respectively. Definitive histopathologic diagnosis was reported for 158 cases. Histopathologic evaluation indicated that 12 (7.6%) of the masses were malignant and 146 (92.6%) were benign. Comparing with the histopathologic diagnosis, the GI-RADS system sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio (LR), and negative LR were 91.6%, 80.82%, 28.2%, 99.1%, 4.77, and 0.10, respectively. The accuracy of the scoring system was 81.64%.

Conclusion:

Our findings indicated that using GI-RADS, we could quantify the risk of malignancy by such a structured as well as simple reporting system so that the system could be useful for clinicians for performing an appropriate clinical management.

Systematic radiological approach to utero-ovarian pathologies

Ultrasound is the first-line imaging modality for the evaluation of suspected adnexal masses, endometriosis and uterine tumors, whereas MRI is used as a secondary diagnostic tool to better characterize these lesions. The aim of this review is to summarize the latest advances in the imaging of these utero-ovarian pathologies.

Physiologic Ovarian Cysts versus Other Ovarian and Adnexal Pathologic Changes in the Preadolescent and Adolescent Population: US and Surgical Follow-up

Background Ovarian and adnexal cysts are frequently encountered at US examinations performed in preadolescent and adolescent patients, yet there are few published studies regarding the outcomes of cysts in this population. Purpose To identify characteristics at US that help to distinguish physiologic ovarian cysts from nonphysiologic entities. Materials and Methods Female patients who underwent pelvic US with or without Doppler from January 2009 through December 2013 were identified by using a centralized imaging database. Patients older than 7 years and younger than 18 years with ovarian or adnexal cysts at least 2.5 cm were included. Demographic characteristics, date of surgery, surgical notes, and pathologic reports were extracted from the electronic medical record. Initial and follow-up dates of US, cyst size and complexity, imaging diagnosis, and change on subsequent US images were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed with the Wilcoxon rank sum and Kruskal-Wallis tests for continuous variables and the Fisher exact test for categorical variables. Results Of 754 patients who met inclusion criteria (age, 8-18 years; mean age, 14.6 years ± 1.9 [standard deviation]; mean cyst size, 5 cm ± 3.3), 409 patients underwent complete follow-up that included resolution at imaging (n = 250) or surgery (n = 159). In the patients with complete imaging follow-up, mean time to US documentation of resolution was 194 days ± 321; 59.6% (149 of 250) patients had nonsimple cyst characteristics. One-hundred fifty-nine patients underwent surgical intervention (mean cyst size, 8.5 cm ± 5.3), and 69.8% (111 of 159) of the cysts had simple characteristics. Of the 159 cysts, 100 (62.8%) were defined in the pathologic report as paratubal cysts. Of 409 patients, no malignancies were encountered in this study population with surgical or imaging resolution. Conclusion No malignancies were encountered in the study population and the majority of cysts resolved at follow-up imaging. Large size, persistence, and separability from the ovary were most helpful for identification of nonphysiologic paratubal cysts. © RSNA, 2019.

Gynecology Imaging Reporting and Data System (GI-RADS): diagnostic performance and inter-reviewer agreement

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate diagnostic performance and inter-reviewer agreement (IRA) of the Gynecologic Imaging Reporting and Data System (GI-RADS) for diagnosis of adnexal masses (AMs) by pelvic ultrasound (US).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective multicenter study included 308 women (mean age, 41 ± 12.5 years; range, 15-73 years) with 325 AMs detected by US. All US examinations were analyzed, and AMs were categorized into five categories according to the GI-RADS classification. We used histopathology and US follow-up as the reference standards for calculating diagnostic performance of GI-RADS for detecting malignant AMs. The Fleiss kappa (κ) tests were applied to evaluate the IRA of GI-RADS scoring results for predicting malignant AMs.

RESULTS

A total of 325 AMs were evaluated: 127 (39.1%) were malignant and 198 (60.9%) were benign. Of 95 AMs categorized as GI-RADS 2 (GR2), none was malignant; of 94 AMs categorized as GR3, three were malignant; of 13 AMs categorized as GR4, six were malignant; and of 123 AMs categorized as GR5, 118 were malignant. On a lesion-based analysis, the GI-RADS had a sensitivity, a specificity, and an accuracy of 92.9%, 97.5%, and 95.7%, respectively, when regarding only those AMs classified as GR5 for predicting malignancy. Considering combined GR4 and GR5 as a predictor for malignancy, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of GI-RADS were 97.6%, 93.9%, and 95.4%, respectively. The IRA of the GI-RADS category was very good (κ = 0.896). The best cutoff value for predicting malignant AMs was >GR3.

CONCLUSIONS

The GI-RADS is very valuable for improving US structural reports.

KEY POINTS

• There is still a lack of a standard in the assessment of AMs. • GI-RADS is very valuable for improving US structural reports of AMs. • GI-RADS criteria are easy and work at least as well as IOTA.

Assessment of the diagnostic value of using serum CA125 and GI-RADS system in the evaluation of adnexal masses

Cancer antigen 125 (CA125) is a valuable tumor marker for ovarian cancer. Gynecology Imaging Reporting and Data System (GI-RADS) is proved to be effective at identifying the adnexal masses. We investigated whether the combination of these two methods can improve the diagnostic accuracy of ovarian cancer.We retrospectively analyzed preoperative data of 325 patients diagnosed with suspected adnexal mass, 196 patients with benign ovarian masses and 129 with malignant ovarian cancer (stage I: 34, II: 16, III: 61, IV: 18). CA125 was analyzed using the ARCHITECT system, GI-RADS was evaluated according to the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis consensus nomenclature and definitions. Sensitivities and specificities were also calculated for GI-RADS, CA125 and the combinations.The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of CA125, GI-RADS were 75.97%, 79.59%, 78.15%, and 90.70%, 90.82%,90.77%, the combination data were 94.79%, 96.00%,95.53%. The AUC of combined diagnostic methods was the largest and significantly better compared with each method alone, P < .001). For stage I-II malignancy, GI-RADS as a single method was superior to CA125.Combined use of serum CA 125 and GI-RADS system improved the identification of adnexal masses at high risk of malignancy and could be used for clinical decision-making.

MRI of the Nontraumatic Acute Abdomen: Description of Findings and Multimodality Correlation

Obtaining a specific diagnosis in the nontraumatic acute abdomen can be clinically challenging, because a wide range of disease processes affecting a number of different organ systems may have very similar presentations. Although computed tomography and ultrasound examination are the imaging tests most commonly used to evaluate the acute abdomen, MRI can often offer comparable diagnostic performance, and may be considered when other modalities are equivocal, suboptimal, or contraindicated. In some circumstances, MRI is emerging as an appropriate first-line imaging test.

Recommendation Patterns among Gynaecologists and Radiologists for Adnexal Masses on Ultrasound

OBJECTIVE

Ultrasound is the primary modality used to evaluate adnexal lesions. Follow-up recommendations for ovarian cysts remain controversial between gynaecologists and radiologists. The objective of this study was to compare practice patterns for adnexal masses described on ultrasound on the basis of the interpreter's field of specialty.

METHODS

This study was conducted within the McGill University Hospital Network at two hospitals that differ in the department of interpretation of pelvic ultrasounds. In one hospital, all studies are reported by gynaecologists, and in the other, by radiologists. The study investigators collected data from pelvic ultrasounds of newly diagnosed ovarian lesions performed from May to June 2014. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to compare recommendation patterns between the two groups.

RESULTS

A total of 201 of 1110 pelvic ultrasound studies performed met our inclusion criteria. Gynaecologists interpreted 69 (34%) pelvic ultrasounds, and radiologists reported on 132 (66%). Reported adnexal mass types were not significantly different between the two groups. As compared with gynaecologists, radiologists were more likely to recommend MRI or CT scans (OR 11.76; 95% CI 1.17-117.78), as well as follow-up ultrasound studies (OR 4.67; 95% CI 1.66-13.1), and they were less likely to recommend no further imaging (OR 0.18; 95% CI 0.07-0.45). Groups did not differ in recommendation patterns for referral to a specialist.

CONCLUSION

There are significant differences in recommendation patterns between gynaecologists and radiologists in evaluating new adnexal masses on ultrasound. This difference can have important effects on resource use and patients' concerns.

Uncommon obstetric and gynecologic emergencies associated with pregnancy: ultrasound diagnosis

INTRODUCTION

Many uncommon obstetric and gynecologic problems associated with pregnancy and the early postpartum period can lead to severe abdominal pain and be life-threatening. The patient will be in urgent need of a quick and accurate decision. The means of management will depend on the ability to differentiate between these problems to achieve an optimal diagnosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

30 pregnant females attended a private obstetric ultrasound clinic with clinical picture of acute abdomen with pregnancy. All were subjected to an ultrasound exam, the results were recorded, and the final diagnosis was reached based on the postoperative results.

RESULTS

Patients were classified according to their duration of pregnancy into cases with acute abdomen that occurred during the first trimester, during the second trimester, during the third trimester, and in the early postpartum period.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonography is a valuable tool for detecting the etiology and guiding the management in cases of emergency situations faced by the obstetrician and gynecologist during pregnancy and the early postpartum period.

Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: Clinical and Imaging Features

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is a spectrum of both benign and malignant gestational tumors, including hydatidiform mole (complete and partial), invasive mole, choriocarcinoma, placental site trophoblastic tumor, and epithelioid trophoblastic tumor. The latter four entities are referred to as gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). These conditions are aggressive with a propensity to widely metastasize. GTN can result in significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. Early diagnosis of GTD is essential for prompt and successful management while preserving fertility. Initial diagnosis of GTD is based on a multifactorial approach consisting of clinical features, serial quantitative human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) titers, and imaging findings. Ultrasonography (US) is the modality of choice for initial diagnosis of complete hydatidiform mole and can provide an invaluable means of local surveillance after treatment. The performance of US in diagnosing all molar pregnancies is surprisingly poor, predominantly due to the difficulty in differentiating partial hydatidiform mole from nonmolar abortion and retained products of conception. While GTN after a molar pregnancy is usually diagnosed with serial β-hCG titers, imaging plays an important role in evaluation of local extent of disease and systemic surveillance. Imaging also plays a crucial role in detection and management of complications, such as uterine and pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas. Familiarity with the pathogenesis, classification, imaging features, and treatment of these tumors can aid in radiologic diagnosis and guide appropriate management. ^©RSNA, 2017.

Imaging of Female Pelvic Emergencies

Pelvic pain is a common complaint in female patients who present to the emergency department. Although encountered frequently, the path to a definitive diagnosis is not always a straightforward one, and imaging offers a valuable tool to aid in this diagnostic challenge. Radiologists must be familiar with the most common etiologies of female pelvic pain in the emergency setting, their imaging characteristics, and the best way to further evaluate challenging clinical presentations. This allows the radiologist to serve as a valuable asset to the treating physician, aiding in accurate diagnosis, and in guiding the course of treatment, all while ensuring the "Image Wisely" principle. A sonographic approach to female patients presenting to the emergency setting with pelvic pain has been presented in this article and some example entities along with their imaging findings have also been reviewed.

Diagnostic performance of the Gynecology Imaging Reporting and Data System for malignant adnexal masses

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the Gynecology Imaging Reporting and Data System (GI-RADS) for diagnosis of malignant adnexal masses in a Chinese population.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted of patients who underwent evaluation of suspected adnexal masses at a hospital in Tianjin, China, between January 1, 2015, and January 31, 2016. Ultrasonographic diagnosis was based on the GI-RADS classification-a standardized summary of imaging data that estimates the risk of malignancy-and compared with the final pathological diagnosis.

RESULTS

Among 242 patients, thick wall, solid papillary projection, solid area, central blood flow, ascites, and GI-RADS classification were associated with malignancy (P<0.05 for all variables). The 263 masses evaluated were classified as GI-RADS 2 (functional cyst; n=65), GI-RADS 3 (benign neoplasm; n=68), GI-RADS 4 (one or two morphological findings suggestive of malignancy; n=101), and GI-RADS 5 (≥3 morphological findings suggestive of malignancy; n=28). Four malignant cases with false-negative findings were misclassified as GI-RADS 3, whereas 24 benign cases with false-positive findings were misclassified as GI-RADS 4. The sensitivity, specificity, false-positive rate, false-negative rate, accuracy, and Youden index of the GI-RADS classification were 96.4%, 84.3%, 18.5%, 3.0%, 89.3%, and 80.7%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The GI-RADS classification performed well in the diagnosis of malignant adnexal masses.

Gynecological pelvic pain as emergency pathology

Acute pelvic pain is a common condition in emergency. The sources of acute pelvic pain are multifactorial, so it is important to be familiar with this type of pathologies. The purpose of this article is review the main causes of gynecological acute pelvic pain and their radiologic appearances to be able to make an accurate diagnosis and provide objective criteria for patient management.

Ovarian thecoma-fibroma groups: clinical and sonographic features with pathological comparison

Background

Ovarian thecoma-fibroma groups (OTFG) are uncommon sex cord-stromal neoplasms. The objective of the study was to demonstrate clinical and sonographic features of OTFG and compare with surgical histopathology.

Methods

A total of 61 patients with surgically proven OTFG were enrolled in this retrospective study to demonstrate its clinical and sonographic features and to compare with pathological findings. Gray scale and color Doppler sonography were performed presurgically with either transabdominal or transvaginal approach to image pelvic structures and lesions. The clinical findings and sonographic appearances were compared with the types of the OTFG tumors based on the histopathological diagnosis.

Results

The mean patient age was 53.57 (range, 26–86) years. There were 63.93% (39/61) patients in postmenopausal and 63.93% (39/61) patients with no clinical symptoms. Ultrasound findings of OTFG revealed as solid tumors with a typical feature of well-demarcated hypoechoic masses in 70.49% (43/61), among which 74.41% (32/43) tumors were smaller than 5 cm in diameter. There were 17 mixed echogenic masses with calcification, hemorrhage, or cyst, among which 70.59% (12/17) lesions were larger than 5 cm in diameter. Acoustic attenuation of the tumor was presented in 44.26% (27/61) of the cases. Doppler flow signals within the tumors were found in 20 cases (32.79%), in which 80% (16/20) had minimal or moderate flow signals. Ascites was detected in 32.79% (20/61) of the cases, Megi’s syndrome was found in 1 case. Final pathology revealed 41 (67.21%) thecoma-fibromas, 15 (24.59%) fibromas, 4 (6.56%) thecomas and 1 (1.64%) fibrosarcoma. There were 58 patients underwent cancer antigen 125 (CA125) test, and 20.69% (12/58) showed an elevated level. The diameter of tumors was found to be significantly correlated with CA125 level (p < 0.01) and the amount of ascites fluid (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The typical sonographic features of OTFG include adnexal hypoechoic masses with clear border and acoustic attenuation as well as minimal Doppler flow signals. All the aforementioned features could make ultrasound imaging as a assistent tool improve the preoperative diagnostic accuracy.

Radiological appearances of corpus luteum cysts and their imaging mimics

PURPOSE

To review the radiological appearances of corpus luteum cysts and their imaging mimics.

CONCLUSION

Corpus luteum cysts are normal post-ovulatory structures seen in the ovaries through the second half of the menstrual cycle and the first trimester of pregnancy. The typical appearance, across all modalities, is of a 1- to 3-cm cyst with a thick crenulated vascularized wall. Occasionally, similar imaging findings may be seen with endometrioma, ectopic pregnancy, tuboovarian abscess, red degeneration of a fibroid, and ovarian neoplasia. In most cases, imaging findings are distinctive and allow for a confident and accurate diagnosis that provides reassurance for patients and referring physicians and avoids costly unnecessary follow-up.

Perineural (Tarlov) Cyst Imitating Complex Adnexal Cyst

Patients are frequently referred for pelvic sonograms to evaluate for adnexal masses. Determining the etiology of the adnexal mass can be challenging, but is necessary to establish a follow-up strategy and correct diagnosis. It is particularly important in those cases when adnexal lesions appear to be complex and the ovaries are not visualized sonographically. Perineural cysts were found incidentally by Tarlov in 1938 during autopsy. This report documents a lesion now bearing his name, Tarlov cysts (TCs). They are defined as cerebrospinal fluid–filled saccular lesions located in the extradural space of the sacral spinal canal and are formed within the nerve root sheath at the dorsal root ganglion. The perineurium and neural tissue make up the cysts’ walls. Usually asymptomatic, a TC is mostly found on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine and sacrum. Occasionally, a TC mimics an adnexal cyst.

Adnexal masses in the premenopausal patient

Practitioners may frequently encounter adnexal masses in premenopausal women. Adnexal masses can represent a wide variety of etiologies, and therefore they can represent a diagnostic dilemma. When an adnexal mass is found the initial work up must focus on identifying acute pathology followed by determining the risk of a malignancy. Pelvic ultrasound remains the mainstay for evaluation of adnexal masses in premenopausal patients. If ultrasounds findings are indeterminate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the next imaging modality of choice. The evaluation for malignancy should include serum marker screening. Aspiration of adnexal masses is generally avoided, due to the lack of therapeutic benefit and risk of seeding a tumor. When ultrasound findings are suggestive of benign disease, conservative management, including repeat imaging, should be considered. If the clinical suspicion for malignancy is high referral to a gynecologic oncologist is warranted. In other patients whom the evaluation of their adnexal mass remains unclear surgical excision with care not to disrupt the integrity of the mass should be performed for pathologic diagnosis.

Ultrasonography of ovarian masses using a pattern recognition approach

As a primary imaging modality, ultrasonography (US) can provide diagnostic information for evaluating ovarian masses. Using a pattern recognition approach through gray-scale transvaginal US, ovarian masses can be diagnosed with high specificity and sensitivity. Doppler US may allow ovarian masses to be diagnosed as benign or malignant with even greater confidence. In order to differentiate benign and malignant ovarian masses, it is necessary to categorize ovarian masses into unilocular cyst, unilocular solid cyst, multilocular cyst, multilocular solid cyst, and solid tumor, and then to detect typical US features that demonstrate malignancy based on pattern recognition approach.

Ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor with heterologous elements of gastrointestinal type associated with elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein level: an unusual case and literature review

Here we describe the case of a 19-year-old woman with a poorly differentiated ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor and an elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein level. The patient presented with diffuse abdominal pain and bloating. Physical examination, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a right ovarian tumor that was histopathologically diagnosed as a poorly differentiated Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor with heterologous elements. Her alpha-fetoprotein serum level was undetectable after tumor resection. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors are rare sex cord-stromal tumors that account for 0.5% of all ovarian neoplasms. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors tend to be unilateral and occur in women under 30 years of age. Although they are the most common virilizing tumor of the ovary, about 60% are endocrine-inactive tumors. Elevated serum levels of alpha-fetoprotein are rarely associated with Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors, with only approximately 30 such cases previously reported in the literature. The differential diagnosis should include common alpha-fetoprotein-producing ovarian entities such as germ cell tumors, as well as other non-germ cell tumors that have been rarely reported to produce this tumor marker.