Papillary serous cystadenocarcinoma arising in benign glandular inclusion cysts in pelvic and inguinal lymph nodes

BACKGROUND: Benign glandular inclusion cysts occurring within lymph nodes have been well described in the literature. However, the malignant potential of these glands is unknown. One previous case report described an adenoacanthoma arising within one of these glands. CASE: A 65-year-old woman was previously diagnosed with papillary serous cystadenocarcinoma in the inguinal and pelvic lymph nodes. She had no tumor involving the ovaries or peritoneal surfaces at the time of initial diagnosis. She presented to us 9 years later with a recurrence of this tumor in the obturator fossa and along the vaginal sidewall. Treatment consisted of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: Although rare, müllerian tumors can occur in the lymph nodes without simultaneous ovarian or peritoneal involvement, and most likely arise de novo within lymph node inclusion cysts.