Ovarian remnant syndrome (ORS) is a rare condition which can occur when some ovarian cells are left behind following an oophorectomy. There are only a few cases of a remnant developing cancer, but to date no studies seem to indicate if ORS affects the risk for developing ovarian cancer.
Women with endometriosis have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer, and studies have found that up to 50% of the cases of malignancy involving ORS are in women with endometriosis. However, the studies have not indicated that having ORS affected the risk of these women developing cancer.
As of right now, there is very little information available to indicate whether or not ORS contributes to ovarian cancer risks. Because in very rare cases an ovarian remnant has become malignant, if you have concerns about ORS and ovarian cancer you should speak to your doctor. Together you can determine if you may have ORS, are at risk for ORS, and need to take into consideration any risks you may have for gynecologic cancer.