Ovarian Remnant Syndrome

Ten patients with “definite” and three patients with “probable” ovarian remnant syndrome are reviewed to emphasize the difficulties in diagnosis and treatment of this clinical problem. Physical examination, clinical history, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were sufficient for diagnosis in most cases. Intravenous pyelography documented ureteral obstruction in two cases. Exogenous estrogen and progestin hormones did not control symptoms. Surgical removal ultimately achieved symptom relief for all women in whom pain was well localized to the remnant, although two patients required two attempts at excision before they were cured. Three patients with more diffuse pain and “probable” ovarian remnants were managed medically. Ovarian remnant syndrome is probably more prevalent than is generally appreciated.