Initiation and progression of Müllerian duct derived malignancies

The female reproductive system consists of the internal and external genitalia. The external genitalia are formed by the vulva, which includes the clitoris, labia majora and minora, urethral orifice and vestibule of the vagina (lower part of the vagina). The internal genital system is located within the pelvis and can be divided into the reproductive tract and the two ovaries (Fig. 1). The reproductive tract consists of the Müllerian duct-derived upper vagina, uterus and two fallopian tubes (oviducts) and functions to transport and guide semen to the oocyte in order to fertilize it (vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes), to hold and nurture the fertilized oocyte during its completion of development from embryonic to fetal stage (uterus) and to form the birth canal (uterus, vagina). The ovaries produce oocytes and secrete hormones necessary for secondary sexual development, regulation of the menstrual cycle, facilitation of implantation and maintenance of the early pregnancy.