epoophoron

The epoophoron is a vestigial remnant of the mesonephric (Wolffian) duct in the female reproductive tract. It consists of a collection of small ducts and tubules located in the upper part of the broad ligament, within the mesosalpinx between the ovary and the fallopian tube. The epoophoron is typically accompanied by a nearby remnant called the paroophoron, which is composed of similarly small tubules near the hilus of the ovary. Together, these structures represent residual Wolffian duct tissue that largely regresses during female embryogenesis.

Embryology and anatomy

During development, the Wolffian ducts form parts of the male internal genitalia; in females most of the duct regresses. The remaining remnants in the broad ligament—the epoophoron and paroophoron—persist as small tubules and ducts. They are usually diminutive and asymptomatic, and their exact number and size can vary among individuals. Gartner’s ducts, also remnants of the Wolffian (mesonephric) duct, may be located elsewhere along the vaginal wall and are sometimes discussed alongside these structures.

Clinical significance

The epoophoron itself typically has no functional role and is found incidentally. However, remnants of Wolffian ducts in this region can give rise to paraovarian cysts, which may originate from the epoophoron or paroophoron. Such cysts are usually benign and often discovered during imaging or surgery for other reasons; they can be mistaken for ovarian cysts preoperatively. Rarely, symptomatic masses or pain may prompt clinical evaluation. The management is generally conservative unless the cysts become large or symptomatic, in which case surgical excision may be considered.

See also

Gartner’s ducts and paraovarian cysts are related Wolffian duct remnants that can appear in the female reproductive tract.