Cancer of the ovary represents about 30% of all gynaecological cancers. Surface epithelial tumours are the most commonly diagnosed subgroup. The present study included 80 cases of ovarian tumours diagnosed over a period of 5 years (4 years retrospective and 1 year prospective). The tumours were broadly classified into benign, borderline and malignant groups. The strength of ER expression increased on progressing from benign to malignant tumour morphology. An increase in ER staining grade was observed with increasing FIGO stage. Anti-ER therapy may potentially be of use in patients with advanced disease