Management of a pelvic mass

The presence of a pelvic mass is a common clinical problem. A combination of findings from the clinical history, examination and results of various investigations can help to determine the character and origin of the mass, determine risk of malignancy and guide management strategies. This problem-based review presents three case histories that illustrate some of the key principles in the management of a pelvic mass. The cases, which include a leiomyosarcoma, an adnexal mass in pregnancy, and a tubo-ovarian abscess, describe commonly encountered clinical scenarios with an evidence-based approach to subsequent management.