A novel serum-based steroid-protein panels for differentiating ovarian cancer from non-malignant adnexal masses.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological malignancy, largely due to the advanced stage at diagnosis in most patients. This study investigates whether systemic steroids can serve as biomarkers to distinguish malignant ovarian tumors from non-malignant adnexal masses.

Methods

This prospective, single-center observational study included 99 women with adnexal masses who underwent surgery between December 2021 and February 2025. Preoperative serum levels of 17 steroid hormones, including androgens, 11-oxyandrogens, glucocorticoids, and mineralocorticoids, were quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Machine learning was employed to assess the diagnostic potential of these steroids in distinguishing ovarian cancer (n = 43) from n

SUBMITTER: Gjorgoska M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12625692 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature