Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What type of tumor is associated with the Rokitansky protuberance?

1. Adenoma

2. Teratoma

3. Sarcoma

4. Carcinoma

The correct answer is: Teratoma

The Rokitansky protuberance is typically associated with teratomas, which are a specific type of germ cell tumor that can contain different types of tissues, such as hair, muscle, and even teeth. These tumors are often found in the ovaries or testicles and can be benign or malignant. The presence of a Rokitansky protuberance signifies that the teratoma has elements that protrude from the surface, making it distinctive. Teratomas are unique because they originate from pluripotent germ cells, which have the potential to differentiate into various tissue types. In contrast, the other types of tumors listed do not associate with the Rokitansky protuberance: adenomas are benign tumors of glandular tissue, sarcomas arise from connective tissue and are generally malignant, while carcinomas originate from epithelial cells and also tend to be malignant. Thus, the characteristic protuberance is a key feature that links this specific anatomical finding to teratomas.