Radiofrequency ablation of a liver metastasis from mucinous adenocarcinoma of the ovary

The use of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the management of recurrent metastatic lesions of ovarian cancer has been reported sporadically. However, to our knowledge, this report is the first to describe isolated hepatic metastasis from ovarian mucinous adenocarcinoma managed with RFA as the initial therapy. A 52-year-old woman was referred to our hospital due to sudden lower abdominal pain. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging suggested spontaneous ruptured ovarian mucinous adenocarcinoma. Moreover, a metastatic lesionin (approximately 1 cm) in segment 8 of the liver could be seen on contrast-enhanced ultrasonography and computed tomography. Because of her lasting pain, laparotomy was performed on the ninth day after the first medical examination. The cystic tumor had already ruptured and was diagnosed as mucinous adenocarcinoma by a rapid histological examination during the operation. Hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo- oophorectomy, omentectomy, and lymphadenectomy were performed. Metastatic lesions to the uterus were also observed (FIGO stage IV, UICC pT2c(a)N0M1). Because the tumor had already ruptured, she was immediately administered cisplatin in the peritoneal cavity after laparotomy. Subsequently, percutaneous RFA and adjuvant chemotherapy were performed expeditiously. She remains healthy 30 months after the initial therapy. RFA, instead of liver resection, may be an effective therapy for hepatic metastatic lesions from mucinous adenocarcinoma of the ovary.