Next Article in Journal
Age Differences in Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing Parameters in Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction
Next Article in Special Issue
Cornual Pregnancy: Results of a Single-Center Retrospective Experience and Systematic Review on Reproductive Outcomes
Previous Article in Journal
Temporal Changes in Functional and Structural Neuronal Activities in Auditory System in Non-Severe Blast-Induced Tinnitus
Previous Article in Special Issue
The Efficiency of Sclerotherapy for the Management of Endometrioma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical and Fertility Outcomes
 
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
Journals
Medicina
Volume 59
Issue 9
10.3390/medicina59091684
medicina-logo
Submit to this Journal Review for this Journal Propose a Special Issue
► Article Menu

Article Menu

share Share announcement Help format_quote Cite question_answer Discuss in SciProfiles thumb_up
...
Endorse textsms
...
Comment
first_page
settings
Order Article Reprints
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Review

Meigs Syndrome and Elevated CA-125: Case Report and Literature Review of an Unusual Presentation Mimicking Ovarian Cancer

by
Irene Iavarone
1,
Michela Padovano
1,
Francesca Pasanisi
1,
Luigi Della Corte
2,*,
Elvira La Mantia
3 and
Carlo Ronsini
1
1
Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
2
Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
3
Pathology Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Medicina 2023, 59(9), 1684; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59091684
Submission received: 20 August 2023 / Revised: 11 September 2023 / Accepted: 18 September 2023 / Published: 19 September 2023
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Constant Updated in the Tailored Treatment of Gynecological Diseases)
Browse Figures
Versions Notes

Abstract

:
Background and Objectives: Meigs syndrome is represented by a benign adnexal tumor, ascites, and hydrothorax. Even though the ovarian mass is often characterized by a fibroma-like origin, cancer antigen-125 (CA-125) serum levels could be elevated as in the development of ovarian cancer. Here, we present the case of a patient with Meigs syndrome and increased CA-125. Materials and Methods: We performed systematic research for articles including similar cases in PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus in February 2023, adopting the string of idioms: “Meigs syndrome AND Cancer antigen 125”, and following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Results: Eligible records were 25. Hydrothorax was right-sided in 10 cases over 25; left-sided in two patients over 25. Concerning ascites, two patients showed more than 6 L of ascitic fluid, whereas three patients had 6 L or less. CA-125 elevation ranged from 149 IU/mL to 3803 IU/mL. Adnexal mass histotypes were: struma ovarii (12 cases), thecomas (two cases), fibrothecomas (five cases), fibromas (five cases), and one sclerosing stromal tumor (SST). Conclusions: In postmenopausal women with elevated CA-125 serum levels and an adnexal mass suspicious for malignancy at ultrasound (US), ascites and pleural effusion, surgery, and histopathological examination are necessary. MS is a diagnostic option, with an excellent prognosis after exeresis of the mass.

1. Introduction

Meigs Syndrome (MS) is a rare presentation defined as the triad of a benign ovarian tumor with ascites and pleural effusion. It is a sporadic syndrome with a low incidence rate. Regarding the ovarian tumors, only 1% present as an MS [1,2,3]. The MS involves a solid benign adnexal formation—fibroma, thecoma, granulosa cell tumor—associated with hydrothorax and ascites. In particular, ascites and pleural effusion spontaneously dissolve after mass exeresis [4]. CA-125 (cancer antigen-125), also known as MUC16 or Mucine 16, is a human glycoprotein employed for the diagnosis and follow-up of different cancer histotypes: first, epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) [5]. Commonly, it is slightly raised in MS, although in the scientific literature, a value above 1000 IU/mL is rare [6,7,8]. The present work is a case report of MS with elevated CA-125 levels. The aim of the work is also to conduct a systematic review of the scientific literature to evaluate similar cases and raise awareness of a rare clinical entity.

Case Presentation

A 61-year-old Italian woman, administered with levothyroxine 75 mcg for hypothyroidism only, denied other pathologies and previous pregnancies and had been complaining about abdominal pain and swelling for 6 months. The patient underwent a complete abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis in another institution without and with contrast, which showed a “voluminous pelvic mass” (maximum diameters 136 × 71 mm) in the median area. The mass was inhomogeneous, with weakly vascularized solid components and hypodense components with a cystic aspect. The origin of that form appeared to be adnexal at first hypothesis, with conspicuous ascitic effusion in the supramesocolic and inframesocolic peritoneal spaces, with a slight thickening of omental fat in the ventral area. In particular, this is suspicious for carcinosis in postmenopausal women. No significant lymph node swellings were reported. The patient was admitted to our department with increased abdominal volume due to ascites and pelvic mass. These were noticed through transvaginal ultrasound (US), which showed an extensive adnexal solid mass measuring 126 × 87 mm, located in the pelvis and apparently of right adnexal origin (Figure 1a). The aspect of the left ovary seemed regular at the transvaginal US (Figure 1b). Massive ascites was noticed both in the pouch of Douglas and in the perihepatic space (Figure 2a,b). Blood tests were performed, and serum CA-125 levels were increased to 1644.5 IU/mL (normal range: 5–35 IU/mL), whereas serum levels of other cancer antigens like CA 19-9, CA 15-3, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and Inhibin B were into the normal range. The patient started to be dyspneic; oxygen saturation was less than 92% in spontaneous breathing. A chest examination revealed an absence of breath sounds and dullness to percussion upon the right lung, suggesting effusion. Shortly after, a right thoracic drainage was positioned due to pleural effusion, leading to 1200 mL of citrine yellow fluid aspiration. The clinicians opted for a diagnostic laparoscopy followed by eventual cytoreduction, based on carcinomatosis suspicion, considering the faster recovery time and minor length of hospital stay. Laparoscopy with an open Hasson trans-umbilical technique was performed. Before introducing the optical system, 1800 mL of ascitic fluid was drained, and albumin was administered to the patient shortly after. In the abdomen, no carcinomatosis was seen. Omental fat, stomach, and bowel appeared free from nodules. The pelvis was not completely visible due to the presence of the pelvic mass. It was solid, with smooth and regular margins, measuring about 20 cm. It rose from the right ovary. Unilateral right salpingo-oophorectomy was performed, and the surgical specimen was sent for histopathological examination. The latter revealed a benign ovarian fibroma. The aspect of the uterus and contralateral ovary was regular (Figure 1b) and the primary plan of a hysterectomy was abandoned [9]. No further surgical maneuver was performed based on the patient’s consent. Estimated blood loss was close to 0 mL. The woman was readmitted to the Gynecology Department and discharged home in good clinical condition and spontaneous breathing, with no evidence of ascites. Final histology reported “Ovary measuring 13 × 8 × 4 cm and tube 5 cm long with two para-tubal cysts. Smooth outer surface. In section, compact, fasciculated area with several edematous aspects; laminar cystic formation with 5 cm maximum diameter, filled with clear serous fluid. Those are the morphologic findings for ovarian fibroid-like sex-cord tumor”. The cytology of pleural effusion was not performed. CA-125 levels were 657 IU/mL on the first day after surgery. Blood test repetition one month after the reported negative values; hence, the patient was considered in remission. Moreover, we systematically searched the literature to find a similar presentation of that syndrome.

2. Materials and Methods

The methods for this study were specified a priori based on the recommendations in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement [10].

2.1. Search Method

We performed systematic research for records about cases of MS with elevated CA-125 serum levels in PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus in February 2023. We made no restriction on the country nor the year of publication, and we only considered studies published entirely in English. We adopted the following string of idioms in each database to identify studies which were fitting to the topic of our review: “MS AND Cancer antigen 125”.

2.2. Study Selection

The study selection was made independently by M.P. and I.I. In case of discrepancy, C.R. decided on inclusion or exclusion. The inclusion criteria were based on: (1) studies describing cases of MS and elevated CA-125 serum levels; (2) peer-reviewed articles published originally. We excluded: non-original studies, pre-clinical trials, animal trials, abstract-only publications, and articles in a language other than English. If possible, the authors of studies that were published as conference abstracts were contacted via e-mail and asked to provide their data.

3. Results

We mentioned the studies selected and all reasons for exclusion in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) flowchart (Figure 3). We assessed all included studies concerning potential conflicts of interest.

Studies’ Characteristics

After the database search, 446 articles matched the search criteria. After removing records with no full-text available, duplicates, abstracts unfitting to the topic of our review, and wrong study designs (e.g., reviews), 38 were suitable for eligibility. Of those, 34 matched the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review (Figure 3). The countries where the studies were conducted, the studies’ design, the enrollment year range, and the number of participants are summarized in Table 1. Overall, the publication years ranged from 1995 to 2022. In total, 36 patients with MS and elevation of CA-125 were included in the systematic review. Table 1 shows that patients’ ages ranged from 13 to 78 years old. Of the 36 selected patients, 28 presented data about hydrothorax and all records revealed information regarding ascites. The former was right-sided in 16 patients over 36, left-sided in three cases over 36, and bilateral in five cases, whereas the remaining articles did not mention hydrothorax location. Regarding ascites, two patients presented with an amount of ascitic fluid greater than 6 L, whereas eight patients had 6 L or less. In six cases, ascites amount was described as massive, whereas the remaining 20 cases did not mention ascites amount. Elevation of CA-125 ranged from 42.3 IU/mL to 3969 IU/mL. Adnexal mass histotypes were 12 struma ovarii, 2 thecomas, 6 fibrothecomas, 14 fibromas, 1 sclerosing stromal tumor (SST), and 1 granulosa cell tumor (GCT).

4. Discussion

The entity of an ovarian mass, ascites, and hydrothorax was recognized for the first time in 1887 by Demons and in 1937 by Meigs [43]. For that reason, it is also known as Demons-MS [43]. The most common histological types in the scientific literature are cellular fibroma, fibro-thecoma, fibroma, thecoma, and granulosa cell tumors [6]. Over the years, pseudo-MS has also emerged [31]. It shows the same clinical features of MS, but the adnexal mass is not fibroma-like. Still, it could be mucinous cystadenoma, teratoma, ovarian metastasis (mainly from colorectal cancer), leiomyoma, or struma ovarii [31,44]. Although various cases of MS with elevated CA-125 serum levels have been described over the years, only 1% of ovarian fibromas or fibrosarcomas have presented with ascites and pleural effusion [31,44,45,46]. For that reason, MS is considered rare in that specific context [31,44,45,46]. The serum levels of CA-125 ranged from 149 IU/mL to 3803 IU/mL, and only two patients presented with CA-125 levels higher than 2000 IU/mL [11,37]. CA-125 is a glycan produced by the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and cells that line the respiratory tract and abdominal organs. However, the precise mechanism related to CA-125 elevation in the context of MS is unclear [1]. One possible explanation may be the irritation with subsequent inflammation of the serosal surface—pleura and peritoneum—provoked by free fluid in the mediastinal and abdominal cavities [1]. Damage or inflammation of those tissues causes the elevation of CA-125, the same as the development of ovarian tumors [1]. The CA-125 cancer marker is generally higher in women with malignant adnexal masses [47]. However, it can also be elevated in benign conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, the menstrual cycle, early pregnancy, liver disorders, or pancreatitis [47,48,49]. Moreover, serum CA-125 levels can also increase in the case of pericardial, pleural, and peritoneal irritation or inflammation [1,50]. In parallel, the elevation of CA-125 levels was detected in 29% of women with non-gynecological malignancies and non-oncological afflictions [51]. There are different hypotheses explaining the formation of ascites. The leading theory is that the transudation of fluid through the tumor surface exceeds the proportion for the peritoneal reabsorption process [6]. Another theory supports the congestion of peritoneal lymphatic vessels and veins, mainly caused by the mass and, secondly, by vasoactive mediators released by the mass itself [6] Regarding hydrothorax constitution, the most probable mechanism underlies the passage of ascitic fluid through the diaphragm and lymph nodes into the chest, and then into pleural virtual space, leading to a pleural effusion [2]. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) seems to be associated with pleural and peritoneal fluid formation because it increases vascular permeability [52]. Moreover, we hypothesize the possibility of using other biomarkers for the recognition of an ovarian mass. Today, MS is mainly identified through the triad of a benign ovarian tumor, ascites, and pleural effusion. This means that MS can be identified mostly through signs and the symptoms. Based on the presented cases, there is no consent on the entity of the ascites and hydrothorax. In fact, ascites range from 9 L to 2.2 L, whereas hydrothorax distributes in both lungs or in one lung, with no apparent correlation to any other variable, as represented in Table 1. Unfortunately, the description of symptoms is poor in the reported cases. The patient who was referred to our department did not complain about pelvic pain, or other gynecological symptoms. When the entity of the hydrothorax and ascites is massive, the patients may show thoracic and abdominal swelling. In addition, regarding CA-125 serum levels, as shown in Table 1, we did not find any apparent relation with other key elements of MS. Those data demonstrate the difficulty in diagnosing MS. In particular, our patient was referred to the hospital showing a CT-scan performed in another institution that did not specialize in gynecological disorders.
MS presentation can be classified into: Classic, Non-Classic and Demons-Meigs’, and Pseudo-Meigs [53]. The Classic form includes the presence of a benign fibroma or fibroma-like mass, such as granulosa cell tumor, thecoma, Brenner tumor, ascites, pleural effusion, and the complete resolution of the ascites and pleural effusion after the exeresis of the mass [53]. The Non-Classic MS classification is used when ascites and pleural effusion coexist with a benign ovarian tumor or with a Fallopian tube or broad ligament tumor [53]. Other authors sustain that the present definition should be equated to the Classic one [54]. In particular, that theory was initially supported by Albert Demons [43]. Our systematic review also included patients with the Non-Classic form of MS, excluding women with Fallopian tube tumor and broad ligament tumor. Pseudo-Meigs Syndrome involves ascites and pleural effusion depending on other pelvic or abdominal tumors and is not to be included in the Demons-Meigs Syndrome criteria [53]. That condition is subcategorized according to its benign or malignant connotation [53]. The former regards all the benign pelvic or abdominal masses situated outside the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, and the broad ligaments, whereas the latter regards primary or metastatic neoplasms of the pelvis or abdomen [53]. In those contexts, any peritoneal or pleural spread should be detected through negative cytology or also through negative malignant cells in biopsy samples [55]. Moreover, ascites and pleural effusion must be resolved after the removal of the mass [44,55,56]. In addition, so-called Atypical or Incomplete MS shows either ascites or pleural effusion coexisting with the mass [57]. It must be classified into Meigs’, Demons-Meigs’, or Pseudo-Meigs’ Syndrome according to the characteristics of the tumor [57,58,59].
Further perspectives can focus upon the use of liquid biopsy or even the composition of intestinal microbiota, in order to identify the phenotype of an ovarian mass, especially if that has an endometriotic nature [60,61]. In parallel, Meigs Syndrome with elevated CA-125 levels mimics ovarian cancer, even though it remains a benign condition. Therefore, it would be appropriate to improve the diagnostic options through the use of additional non-invasive biomarkers before surgery. Obviously, liquid biopsy and miRNA identification can be performed upon various substances. In the case of the triad of MS, that technique might also be applied on ascites and pleural effusion. Hypothetically, the same miRNAs should be detected both in pleural and peritoneal fluid, because we expect them to be related to CA-125 elevation. Otherwise, miRNA expression may differ based on the nature of the ovarian mass.
In addition, it would be interesting to examine the colonized microbial composition of pleural and peritoneal fluids, in order to identify a key profile. To detect pleural effusion in women, a feasible option is the pleural fluid analysis [62,63,64]. In particular, the examination of the different fluid components and properties offers reliable information upon the mechanism underlying the fluid accumulation [53]. The most common distinction of the fluid’s nature is based on transudate and exudate [53]. However, Bayesian analysis provides a more specific ratio of the exudative effusion [65]. The rarity of MS makes it extremely challenging to establish the main features of the pleural fluid; hence, it becomes important to associate that presentation with the great entity of dyspnea and abdominal swelling, which are present in 32% of MS-affected women [53]. In fact, 95.4% of patients with malignant Pseudo-Meigs Syndrome underwent at least one thoracentesis [53]. In general, the exudate is more common in MS compared to transudate [2,62,63]. The distinction transudate and exudate can be performed through the puncture Rivalta test and Light’s criteria [53]. In the Rivalta test, a tube is filled with distilled water and acetic acid. Afterwards, one drop of the effusion is added. If the drop dissolves, the test is negative and indicates a transudate; however, if the drop precipitates, the test is positive and indicates an exudate [66]. Light’s criteria combine three dichotomous experiments comparing the number of proteins and LDH between the serum and the fluid [67]. In general, the proportion of proteins is the most affordable criterion to discriminate between the exudative or transudative nature of MS fluid [53]. Based on the evidence of the scientific literature, MS is mostly associated with an exudate [53]. Unfortunately, we did not perform any of those tests on pleural effusion. The main theory supporting the formation of pleural effusion regards the accumulation of the ascitic fluid throughout the diaphragmatic pores [68,69]. However, the accumulation of peritoneal fluid is far less investigated. Probably, it is linked to the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, which augment the vessels’ leakage [70]. The increased vascular permeability may also depend on the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) release [70]. There is evidence demonstrating that the serum levels of those molecules decrease after the removal of the mass, and their reduction is associated with the resolution of ascites and hydrothorax [52]. VEGF is usually produced by tumor cells, but it can be secreted by extra-tumor sources like ovarian metastases [70,71]. Otherwise, ascites may be the result of an excessive interstitial edema [72]. The interstitial fluid accumulates into the abdominal cavity due to an imbalance between the arterial blood supply to an extensive tumor and the venous drainage [72]. Moreover, the lymphatic vessels—covered by a single-layer cuboidal epithelium—are not able to hold the fluid and it escapes into the peritoneal cavity [72].
One of the main limitations of our study is linked to the rarity of MS. Cases reported in the scientific literature are presented heterogeneously, especially regarding the entity of ascites and pleural effusion. Moreover, the cytology of the fluids is not always described.
On the other hand, our work could raise awareness of an unusual presentation of a systemic disease involving multiple comorbidities, and thus requiring a wider choice of treatment.
In the case of MS, it is important to evaluate the patient’s age, in order to choose the best surgical and staging options. Our patient was 61 years old; however, other cases reported in the scientific literature show more heterogeneous findings [73,74].

5. Conclusions

In postmenopausal women with elevated CA-125 serum levels suspicious for a malignant adnexal mass at US visualization, signs like ascites and pleural effusion, surgery, and histopathological examination are required. These are necessary for the correct diagnosis and treatment of ovarian tumors. Indeed, MS could be a diagnostic option, showing an excellent prognosis after mass exeresis.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, C.R.; methodology, C.R. and I.I.; software, E.L.M.; validation, C.R.; formal analysis, M.P.; investigation, M.P.; resources, E.L.M.; data curation, I.I. and F.P.; writing—original draft preparation, M.P. and I.I.; writing—review and editing, I.I.; supervision, L.D.C. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Not applicable.

Informed Consent Statement

Written informed consent has been obtained from the patient to publish this paper.

Data Availability Statement

Data supporting the Results can be found in References.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

  1. Morán-Mendoza, A.; Alvarado-Luna, G.; Calderillo-Ruiz, G.; Serrano-Olvera, A.; López-Graniel, C.M.; Gallardo-Rincón, D. Elevated CA125 level associated with Meigs’ syndrome: Case report and review of the literature. Int. J. Gynecol. Cancer 2006, 16 (Suppl. S1), 315–318. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  2. Riker, D.; Goba, D. Ovarian mass, pleural effusion, and ascites: Revisiting Meigs syndrome. J. Bronchol. Interv. Pulmonol. 2013, 20, 48–51. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  3. Pauls, M.; MacKenzie, H.; Ramjeesingh, R. Hydropic leiomyoma presenting as a rare condition of pseudo-Meigs syndrome: Literature review and a case of a pseudo-Meigs syndrome mimicking ovarian carcinoma with elevated CA125. BMJ Case Rep. 2019, 12, bcr-2018-226454. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  4. Liu, Y.; Tang, G.Y.; Liu, L.; Sun, H.M.; Zhu, H.Y. Giant struma ovarii with pseudo-Meigs’ syndrome and raised cancer antigen-125 levels: A case report. World J. Clin. Cases 2022, 10, 11155–11161. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  5. Bonifácio, V.D.B. Ovarian Cancer Biomarkers: Moving Forward in Early Detection. Adv. Exp. Med. Biol. 2020, 1219, 355–363. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  6. Vieira, S.C.; Pimentel, L.H.; Ribeiro, J.C.; de Andrade Neto, A.F.; de Santana, J.O. Meigs’ syndrome with elevated CA 125: Case report. Sao Paulo Med. J. 2003, 121, 210–212. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  7. Aithal, A.; Rauth, S.; Kshirsagar, P.; Shah, A.; Lakshmanan, I.; Junker, W.M.; Jain, M.; Ponnusamy, M.P.; Batra, S.K. MUC16 as a novel target for cancer therapy. Expert. Opin. Ther. Targets 2018, 22, 675–686. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  8. Alletti, S.G.; Restaino, S.; Finelli, A.; Ronsini, C.; Lucidi, A.; Scambia, G.; Fanfani, F. Step by Step Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy with Uterine Arteries Ligation at the Origin. J. Minim. Invasive Gynecol. 2020, 27, 22–23. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  9. Restaino, S.; Ronsini, C.; Finelli, A.; Santarelli, A.; Scambia, G.; Fanfani, F. Laparoscopic Approach for Shull Repair of Pelvic Floor Defects. J. Minim. Invasive Gynecol. 2018, 25, 954. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  10. Moher, D.; Liberati, A.; Tetzlaff, J.; Altman, D.G. PRISMA Group. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: The PRISMA statement. BMJ 2009, 339, b2535. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  11. Siddiqui, M.; Toub, D.B. Cellular fibroma of the ovary with Meigs’ syndrome and elevated CA-125. A case report. J. Reprod. Med. 1995, 40, 817–819. [Google Scholar]
  12. Timmerman, D.; Moerman, P.; Vergote, I. Meigs’ syndrome with elevated serum CA 125 levels: Two case reports and review of the literature. Gynecol. Oncol. 1995, 59, 405–408. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  13. Bethune, M.; Quinn, M.; Rome, R. Struma ovarii presenting as acute pseudo-Meigs syndrome with an elevated CA 125 level. Aust. N. Z. J. Obstet. Gynaecol. 1996, 36, 372–373. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  14. Abad, A.; Cazorla, E.; Ruiz, F.; Aznar, I.; Asins, E.; Llixiona, J. Meigs’ syndrome with elevated CA125: Case report and review of the literature. Eur. J. Obstet. Gynecol. Reprod. Biol. 1999, 82, 97–99. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  15. Fujii, M.; Okino, M.; Fujioka, K.; Yamashita, K.; Hamano, K. Pseudo-Meigs’ syndrome caused by breast cancer metastasis to both ovaries. Breast Cancer 2006, 13, 344–348. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  16. Huh, J.J.; Montz, F.J.; Bristow, R.E. Struma ovarii associated with pseudo-Meigs’ syndrome and elevated serum CA 125. Gynecol. Oncol. 2002, 86, 231–234. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  17. Renaud, M.C.; Plante, M.; Roy, M. Ovarian thecoma associated with a large quantity of ascites and elevated serum CA 125 and CA 15-3. J. Obstet. Gynaecol. Can. 2002, 24, 963–965. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  18. Bokhari, A.; Rosenfeld, G.S.; Cracchiolo, B.; Heller, D.S. Cystic struma ovarii presenting with ascites and an elevated CA-125 level. A case report. J. Reprod. Med. 2003, 48, 52–56. [Google Scholar] [PubMed]
  19. Korkolis, D.P.; Koulaxouzidis, G.V.; Apostolikas, N.; Vassilopoulos, P.P. Ovarian fibrothecoma associated with Meigs’ syndrome and elevated serum CA 125. J. BUON 2004, 9, 473–475. [Google Scholar]
  20. Loizzi, V.; Cormio, G.; Resta, L.; Fattizzi, N.; Vicino, M.; Selvaggi, L. Pseudo-Meigs syndrome and elevated CA125 associated with struma ovarii. Gynecol. Oncol. 2005, 97, 282–284. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  21. Jung, N.H.; Kim, T.; Kim, H.J.; Lee, K.W.; Lee, N.W.; Lee, E.S. Ovarian sclerosing stromal tumor presenting as Meigs’ syndrome with elevated CA-125. J. Obstet. Gynaecol. Res. 2006, 32, 619–622. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  22. Peyron, N.; Coulon, A. Struma ovarii, pseudo-Meigs’ syndrome and raised CA125, a rare association. Answer to May e-quid. Diagn. Interv. Imaging 2012, 93, 643–647. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  23. Obeidat, B.R.; Amarin, Z.O. Struma ovarii with pseudo-Meigs’ syndrome and elevated CA125 levels. J. Obstet. Gynaecol. 2007, 27, 97–98. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  24. Mitrou, S.; Manek, S.; Kehoe, S. Cystic struma ovarii presenting as pseudo-Meigs’ syndrome with elevated CA125 levels. A case report and review of the literature. Int. J. Gynecol. Cancer 2008, 18, 372–375. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  25. Benjapibal, M.; Sangkarat, S.; Laiwejpithaya, S.; Viriyapak, B.; Chaopotong, P.; Jaishuen, A. Meigs’ Syndrome with Elevated Serum CA125: Case Report and Review of the Literature. Case Rep. Oncol. 2009, 2, 61–66. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  26. Jiang, W.; Lu, X.; Zhu, Z.L.; Liu, X.S.; Xu, C.J. Struma ovarii associated with pseudo-Meigs’ syndrome and elevated serum CA 125: A case report and review of the literature. J. Ovarian Res. 2010, 3, 18. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  27. Liou, J.H.; Su, T.C.; Hsu, J.C. Meigs’ syndrome with elevated serum cancer antigen 125 levels in a case of ovarian sclerosing stromal tumor. Taiwan. J. Obstet. Gynecol. 2011, 50, 196–200. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  28. Monteiro, S.B.; Costa, A.; Paiva, V. Mitotically active cellular ovarian fibroma with Meigs’ syndrome and elevated CA-125: Towards fertility preservation. J. Pediatr. Adolesc. Gynecol. 2012, 25, e107–e109. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  29. Mostaghel, N.; Enzevaei, A.; Zare, K.; Fallahian, M. Struma ovarii associated with Pseudo-Meig’s syndrome and high serum level of CA 125; a case report. J. Ovarian Res. 2012, 5, 10. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  30. Yilmaz, E.; Tanrikut, E.; Karaer, A.; Simsek, Y.; Celik, O.; Minareci, Y. Meigs’ Syndrome With Elevated Serum CA125. J. Turk. Soc. Obstet. Gynecol. 2012, 9 (Suppl. S1), 22–25. [Google Scholar]
  31. Cha, M.Y.; Roh, H.J.; You, S.K.; Lee, S.H.; Cho, H.J.; Kwon, Y.S. Meigs’ syndrome with elevated serum CA 125 level in a case of ovarian fibrothecoma. Eur. J. Gynaecol. Oncol. 2014, 35, 734–737. [Google Scholar]
  32. Yazdani, S.; Alijanpoor, A.; Sharbatdaran, M.; Bouzari, Z.; Abedisamakoosh, M.; Lakaieandi, F.; Mohammadpour, M. Meigs’ syndrome with elevated serum CA125 in a case of ovarian fibroma /thecoma. Caspian J. Intern. Med. 2014, 5, 43–45. [Google Scholar] [PubMed]
  33. Ghani, T.; Sultana, N.; Hussain, T.; Begum, A.; Paul, S.K.; Noorjahan; Hossain, M.S. Meigs’ Syndrome Associated With Elevated Ca 125 Level—A Rare Case. J. Dhaka Med. Coll. 2015, 24, 76–78. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  34. Jin, C.; Dong, R.; Bu, H.; Yuan, M.; Zhang, Y.; Kong, B. Coexistence of benign struma ovarii, pseudo-Meigs’ syndrome and elevated serum CA 125: Case report and review of the literature. Oncol. Lett. 2015, 9, 1739–1742. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  35. Laan, B.J.; van den Heiligenberg, S.M.; Hemelaar, M. Ascites, pleuravocht en een benigne ovariumtumor [Ascites, pleural effusion and a benign ovarian tumour; the triad of Meigs’ syndrome]. Ned. Tijdschr. Geneeskd. 2016, 160, D480. [Google Scholar]
  36. Park, H.N.; Kim, S.G.; Kim, Y.S. Meigs’ Syndrome with Elevated Cancer Antigen 125. Soonchunhyang Med. Sci. 2016, 22, 129–131. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  37. Sofoudis, C.; Kouiroukidou, P.; Louis, K.; Karasaridou, K.; Toutounas, K.; Gerolymatos, A.; Papamargaritis, E. Enormous ovarian fibroma with elevated Ca-125 associated with Meigs’ syndrome. Presentation of a rare case. Eur. J. Gynaecol. Oncol. 2016, 37, 142–143. [Google Scholar]
  38. Oluwasola, T.A.O. Struma Ovarii, Pseudo-Meigs’ Syndrome, and Associated Elevated Serum CA-125. J. Gynecol. Surg. 2019, 35, 38–41. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  39. Yadav, S.; Tomar, R.; Verma, N.; Khurana, N.; Triathi, R. Struma Ovarii with Pseudo-Meigs’ Syndrome and Raised Cancer Antigen-125 Levels Masquerading as an Ovarian Carcinoma Case report and literature review. Sultan Qaboos Univ. Med. J. 2017, 17, e229–e233. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  40. Navarro-Esteva, J.; Laseca-Modrago, M.; Arencibia-Sánchez, O. Two Patients With Meigs’ Syndrome and Elevated Serum CA-125: A Case Report. Cureus 2020, 12, e8927. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  41. Khanduja, D.; Kajal, N.C. A case report on Meigs’ syndrome and elevated serum CA-125: A rare case report. J. Pulmonol. Respir. Res. 2021, 5, 031–033. [Google Scholar]
  42. Imai, A.; Ushida, S.; Ichigo, S.; Takagi, H.; Matsunami, K.; Ito, Y. Meigs Syndrome with Highly Elevated CA125. Biomed. J. Sci. Tech. Res. 2022, 46, 37217–37220. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  43. Brun, J.L. Demons syndrome revisited: A review of the literature. Gynecol. Oncol. 2007, 105, 796–800. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  44. Peparini, N.; Chirletti, P. Ovarian malignancies with cytologically negative pleural and peritoneal effusions: Demons’ or meigs’ pseudo-syndromes? Int. J. Surg. Pathol. 2009, 17, 396–397. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  45. Chechia, A.; Attia, L.; Temime, R.B.; Makhlouf, T.; Koubaa, A. Incidence, clinical analysis, and management of ovarian fibromas and fibrothecomas. Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. 2008, 199, 473.e1–473.e4. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  46. Cho, Y.J.; Lee, H.S.; Kim, J.M.; Joo, K.Y.; Kim, M.L. Clinical characteristics and surgical management options for ovarian fibroma/fibrothecoma: A study of 97 cases. Gynecol. Obstet. Invest 2013, 76, 182–187. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  47. Zhang, M.; Cheng, S.; Jin, Y.; Zhao, Y.; Wang, Y. Roles of CA125 in diagnosis, prediction, and oncogenesis of ovarian cancer. Biochim. Biophys. Acta Rev. Cancer 2021, 1875, 188503. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  48. Hirsch, M.; Duffy, J.; Davis, C.J.; Nieves Plana, M.; Khan, K.S. International Collaboration to Harmonise Outcomes and Measures for Endometriosis. Diagnostic accuracy of cancer antigen 125 for endometriosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BJOG 2016, 123, 1761–1768. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  49. Chowdhury, M.A.; Zhang, X.; Wei, H.; Guo, C. Cancer antigen-125 and ICAM-1 are together responsible for ascites in liver cirrhosis. Clin. Lab. 2014, 60, 653–658. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  50. Núñez, J.; de la Espriella, R.; Miñana, G.; Santas, E.; Llácer, P.; Núñez, E.; Palau, P.; Bodí, V.; Chorro, F.J.; Sanchis, J.; et al. Antigen carbohydrate 125 as a biomarker in heart failure: A narrative review. Eur. J. Heart Fail. 2021, 23, 1445–1457. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  51. Bottoni, P.; Scatena, R. The role of CA 125 as tumor marker: Biochemical and clinical aspects. Adv. Exp. Med. Biol. 2015, 867, 229–244. [Google Scholar]
  52. Ishiko, O.; Yoshida, H.; Sumi, T.; Hirai, K.; Ogita, S. Vascular endothelial growth factor levels in pleural and peritoneal fluid in Meigs’ syndrome. Eur. J. Obstet. Gynecol. Reprod. Biol. 2001, 98, 129–130. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  53. Krenke, R.; Maskey-Warzechowska, M.; Korczynski, P.; Zielinska-Krawczyk, M.; Klimiuk, J.; Chazan, R.; Light, R.W. Pleural Effusion in Meigs’ Syndrome-Transudate or Exudate? Systematic Review of the Literature. Med. Baltim. 2015, 94, e2114. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  54. Lurie, S. Meigs’ syndrome: The history of the eponym. Eur. J. Obstet. Gynecol. Reprod. Biol. 2000, 92, 199–204. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  55. Hartstein, J.A.; Jacobs, A.J.; Deppe, G.; Moshipur, J.; Cohen, C.J. Pseudo-Meigs syndrome with resulting papillary adenocarcinomas of the ovary and fallopian tube. Int. J. Gynaecol. Obstet. 1980, 18, 170–171. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  56. Saito, H.; Koide, N.; Miyagawa, S. Pseudo-Meigs syndrome caused by sigmoid colon cancer metastasis to the ovary. Am. J. Surg. 2012, 203, e1–e3. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  57. McNulty, T.F.; Muccino, J.A. Meigs’ syndrome--an incomplete form with severe hydrothorax. Conn. Med. 1966, 30, 267–270. [Google Scholar]
  58. Agranoff, D.; May, D.; Jameson, C.; Knowles, G.K. Pleural effusion and a pelvic mass. Postgrad. Med. J. 1998, 74, 265–267. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  59. Solomon, S.; Farber, S.J.; Caruso, L.J. Fibromyomata of the uterus with hemothorax. Meigs’ syndrome? Arch. Intern. Med. 1971, 127, 307–309. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  60. Ronsini, C.; Fumiento, P.; Iavarone, I.; Greco, P.F.; Cobellis, L.; De Franciscis, P. Liquid Biopsy in Endometriosis: A Systematic Review. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 6116. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  61. Iavarone, I.; Greco, P.F.; La Verde, M.; Morlando, M.; Torella, M.; de Franciscis, P.; Ronsini, C. Correlations between Gut Microbial Composition, Pathophysiological and Surgical Aspects in Endometriosis: A Review of the Literature. Med. Kaunas 2023, 59, 347. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  62. Hooper, C.; Lee, Y.C.; Maskell, N. BTS Pleural Guideline Group. Investigation of a unilateral pleural effusion in adults: British Thoracic Society Pleural Disease Guideline 2010. Thorax 2010, 65 (Suppl. S2), ii4–ii17. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  63. McGrath, E.E.; Blades, Z.; Needham, J.; Anderson, P.B. A systematic approach to the investigation and diagnosis of a unilateral pleural effusion. Int. J. Clin. Pract. 2009, 63, 1653–1659. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  64. Sahn, S.A. Getting the most from pleural fluid analysis. Respirology 2012, 17, 270–277. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  65. Heffner, J.E.; Highland, K.; Brown, L.K. A meta-analysis derivation of continuous likelihood ratios for diagnosing pleural fluid exudates. Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 2003, 167, 1591–1599. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  66. Fischer, Y.; Sauter-Louis, C.; Hartmann, K. Diagnostic accuracy of the Rivalta test for feline infectious peritonitis. Vet. Clin. Pathol. 2012, 41, 558–567. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  67. Porcel, J.M. Identifying transudates misclassified by Light’s criteria. Curr. Opin. Pulm. Med. 2013, 19, 362–367. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  68. Saito, F.; Tashiro, H.; Honda, R.; Ohtake, H.; Katabuchi, H. Twisted ovarian tumor causing progressive hemothorax: A case report of porous diaphragm syndrome. Gynecol. Obstet. Invest. 2008, 66, 134–137. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  69. Kirschner, P.A. Porous diaphragm syndromes. Chest Surg. Clin. N. Am. 1998, 8, 449–472. [Google Scholar]
  70. Abramov, Y.; Anteby, S.O.; Fasouliotis, S.J.; Barak, V. Markedly elevated levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, and interleukin 6 in Meigs syndrome. Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. 2001, 184, 354–355. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  71. Okuchi, Y.; Nagayama, S.; Mori, Y.; Kawamura, J.; Matsumoto, S.; Nishimura, T.; Yoshizawa, A.; Sakai, Y. VEGF hypersecretion as a plausible mechanism for pseudo-meigs’ syndrome in advanced colorectal cancer. Jpn. J. Clin. Oncol. 2010, 40, 476–481. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  72. MEIGSJV Fibroma of the ovary with ascites and hydrothorax; Meigs’ syndrome. Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. 1954, 67, 962–985. [CrossRef]
  73. Ronsini, C.; Mosca, L.; Iavarone, I.; Nicoletti, R.; Vinci, D.; Carotenuto, R.M.; Pasanisi, F.; Solazzo, M.C.; De Franciscis, P.; Torella, M.; et al. Oncological outcomes in fertility-sparing treatment in stage IA-G2 endometrial cancer. Front. Oncol. 2022, 12, 965029. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  74. Ronsini, C.; Pasanisi, F.; Molitierno, R.; Iavarone, I.; Vastarella, M.G.; De Franciscis, P.; Conte, C. Minimally Invasive Staging of Early-Stage Epithelial Ovarian Cancer versus Open Surgery in Terms of Feasibility and Safety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12, 3831. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Medicina 59 01684 g001
Figure 1. Transvaginal ultrasound image of adnexa: (a) right (e.g., DX) adnexal mass; (b) normal left (e.g., SIN) ovary.
Figure 1. Transvaginal ultrasound image of adnexa: (a) right (e.g., DX) adnexal mass; (b) normal left (e.g., SIN) ovary.
Medicina 59 01684 g001
Medicina 59 01684 g002
Figure 2. Transvaginal ultrasound image of massive ascites: (a) in the pouch of Douglas; (b) in the perihepatic space.
Figure 2. Transvaginal ultrasound image of massive ascites: (a) in the pouch of Douglas; (b) in the perihepatic space.
Medicina 59 01684 g002
Medicina 59 01684 g003
Figure 3. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) flow diagram.
Figure 3. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) flow diagram.
Medicina 59 01684 g003
Table 1. Summary of different cases of MS with elevated CA-125 levels.
Table 1. Summary of different cases of MS with elevated CA-125 levels.
Author, Year of PublicationAgeCountryPeriod of EnrollmentHydrothoraxAscitesCA-125 (IU/mL)Histotype
Siddiqui 1995 [11]57USA1995Minimal right-sidedStraw-colored 7.6 L3184Struma ovarii
Timmerman 1995 [12]71BelgiumN/AMassive right-sided, minimal left-sided1 L484.5Fibroma
73BelgiumN/AN/A0.5 L42.3Fibroma
Bethune 1996 [13]46Australia1996Marked bilateralModerate straw-colored 6 L1230.9Struma ovarii
Abad 1998 [14]50Spain1998Right-sidedPresent1476.8SST
Fujii 2002 [15]N/AJapanN/APresentPresentRaisedFibroma
Huh 2002 [16]52USA2002Moderate right-sidedPresent149Struma ovarii
Renaud 2002 [17]57CanadaN/AN/AStraw-colored 9 L1750Thecoma
Bokhari 2003 [18]65USA2003Right-sidedMassive161Struma ovarii
Vieira 2003 [6] 51Brazil2003BilateralPresent577Fibroma
Korkolis 2004 [19]65Greece2004Moderate bilateral6 L402Struma ovarii
Loizzi 2005 [20]52Italy2005PresentPresent319.2Fibrothecoma
Jung 2006 [21]62Korea2006PresentPresentRaisedFibrothecoma
Peyron 2006 [22]51France2006Right-sidedPresent412Fibrothecoma
Obeidat 2007 [23]52Jordan20072 L bilateralMassive 2.2 L1289Struma ovarii
Mitrou 2008 [24]65United Kingdom2008Left-sidedMassive406.3Thecoma
Benjapibal 2009 [25]56ThailandN/A1.5 L right-sided2.5 L1064Fibroma
Jiang 2010 [26]72China2010Massive right-sidedPresent607.4 Struma ovarii
Liou 2011 [27]78Taiwan2011N/APresent164Struma ovarii
Monteiro 2012 [28]50Portugal2012PresentPresent600Fibrothecoma
Mostaghel 2012 [29]13Iran2012Moderate right-sidedVoluminous453Fibroma
Yilmaz 2012 [30]40TurkeyN/ASera-hemorragic0.5 L823Fibroma
Cha 2014 [31]N/ASouth Korea2014Right-sidedAbsentRaisedFibroma
Yazdani 2014 [32]50IranN/ALeft-sidedPresent600Fibrothecoma
Ghani 2015 [33]50Bangladesh2015Right-sidedClear 2 L right-sided hydronephrosisand355.1Fibroma
Jin 2015 [34]73China2014Right-sidedPresent1780Fibroma
Laan 2016 [35]49The NetherlandsN/APresentPresentRaisedFibrothecoma
Park 2016 [36]72KoreaN/AN/AMassive327Fibroma
Sofoudis 2016 [37]55Greece2016Bilateral basal lung atelectasis with a small left pleural effusionMassive3803Struma ovarii
Oluwasola 2017 [38]62Nigeria2017Massive right-sidedSmall1621Struma ovarii
Yadav 2017 [39]55India2016N/APresent258 Struma ovarii
Navarro-Esteva 2020 [40]59SpainN/AMinimal right-sidedAbsent1000Fibroma
Khanduja 2021 [41]50IndiaN/ARight-sidedAbsent534Fibroma
48SpainN/APale-yellow right-sidedPresent526GCT
Liu 2022 [4]N/AChina2021PresentPresentRaisedStruma ovarii
Ushida 2022 [42] Japan2022N/AMassive3969Fibroma
CA-125: cancer antigen-125; L: liters; SST: sclerosing stromal tumor; GCT: granulosa cell tumor.
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Iavarone, I.; Padovano, M.; Pasanisi, F.; Della Corte, L.; La Mantia, E.; Ronsini, C. Meigs Syndrome and Elevated CA-125: Case Report and Literature Review of an Unusual Presentation Mimicking Ovarian Cancer. Medicina 2023, 59, 1684. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59091684

AMA Style

Iavarone I, Padovano M, Pasanisi F, Della Corte L, La Mantia E, Ronsini C. Meigs Syndrome and Elevated CA-125: Case Report and Literature Review of an Unusual Presentation Mimicking Ovarian Cancer. Medicina. 2023; 59(9):1684. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59091684

Chicago/Turabian Style

Iavarone, Irene, Michela Padovano, Francesca Pasanisi, Luigi Della Corte, Elvira La Mantia, and Carlo Ronsini. 2023. "Meigs Syndrome and Elevated CA-125: Case Report and Literature Review of an Unusual Presentation Mimicking Ovarian Cancer" Medicina 59, no. 9: 1684. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59091684

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop