Three cell types of origin:

1. Surface epithelium
2. Germ cells
3. Sex-cord stroma (theca, granulosa)

Surface epithelial tumors

most common type

derived from coelomic epithelium

Two most comon subtypes:

1. Serous
2. Mucinous

both are usually cystic, just name based on the type of fluid occupied

Benign (cystadenoma)

single cyst with simple, flat lining

most commonly arises in premenopausal women (30-40 yrs old)

Malignant (cystadenocarcinoma)

composed of complex cysts with thick, shaggy lining

most commonly arises in postmenopausal women (60-70 yrs old)

Borderline tumors

better prognosis than clearly malignant types

but still carry metastatic potential