Abstract:

Abdominal wall endometriosis-associated clear cell carcinoma (AWECC) is characterized by low incidence, high invasiveness and poor prognosis. To date, there have been relatively few reports on AWECC. AWECC primarily originates from the malignant transformation of abdominal wall endometriosis (AWE). In recent years, there has been a rising incidence of AWECC, possibly attributed to the increased number of pelvic and abdominal surgeries, including cesarean section. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying its malignant transformation remain unclear. AWECC lacks specific clinical features, making it challenging to distinguish from benign AWE. The definitive diagnosis depends on histological examination. The treatment of AWECC primarily lies on the clinicians' personal experience, which varies greatly, and lacks corresponding guidelines. In clinical practice, surgical treatment with extended resection of the abdominal wall tumor, is typically employed. The efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in AWECC patients requires further investigation. Until now, most of the studies on AWECC have been case reports. Therefore, we reviewed the pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of AWECC based on domestic and foreign literature, so as to arouse the attention of clinicians to the diagnosis of the disease and provide evidence for clinical diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.

Key words: Abdominal wall endometriosis, Abdominal wall endometriosis-associated clear cell carcinoma, Diagnosis, Therapy, Prognosis