Case report: primary ovarian carcinoid: a rare tumor causing unexpected manifestations in a previously undiagnosed woman.

Although carcinoid tumors arising from midgut structures are rare, the existence of these tumors is well documented. However, carcinoid tumors arising from the reproductive organs, such as primary ovarian carcinoids, are rare and sparsely documented. Because of this rarity, a small percentage of women may present with ovarian masses that are not properly diagnosed as carcinoid tumor creating unexpected hemodynamic changes under general anesthesia. However, prior knowledge of the clinical manifestations of this rare entity may improve the sensitivity of the preoperative evaluation and allow the anesthesiologist to take precautions as a result of the suspicion of ovarian carcinoid.