OVARIAN CYSTS

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Ovarian cysts

Uterus

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Uterine anatomy

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Definition

An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid that forms on or inside of an ovary.

Alternative Names

Physiologic ovarian cysts; Functional ovarian cysts

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Ovarian cysts may occur during the process in which an egg is released from the ovary (ovulation). During the days before ovulation, a follicle grows. But when ovulation is supposed to occur, the follicle fails to break open and release an egg, as it is supposed to do. Instead, the fluid stays in the follicle and forms a cyst.

Ovarian cysts are somewhat common, and are more common during a woman's childbearing years (from puberty to menopause). Ovarian cysts are rare after menopause.

No known risk factors have been found.

Functional ovarian cysts are not the same as ovarian tumors (including ovarian cancer) or cysts due to hormone-related conditions such as polycystic ovary disease.

Symptoms

An ovarian cyst can cause pain if it:

• Bleeds
• Breaks open
• Is twisted or causes twisting (torsion) of the fallopian tube
• Pushes on nearby structures

Symptoms of ovarian cysts can include:

• Abnormal uterine bleeding (change from normal menstrual pattern)
  • Absent menstruation
  • Irregular menstruation
  • Longer than usual menstrual cycle
  • Shorter than usual menstrual cycle
• Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
• Pain during bowel movements
• Pain in the pelvis shortly after beginning or ending a menstrual period
• Pain with intercourse or pelvic pain during movement
• Pelvic pain -- constant, dull aching

Note: Often there are no symptoms.

Signs and tests

• CT scan
• Doppler flow studies
• MRI
• Pelvic exam
• Ultrasound

The doctor may order the following blood tests:

• Hormone levels (such as LH, FSH, estradiol, and testosterone)
• Serum HCG (pregnancy test)

Reviewer Info: Peter Chen, MD, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., 02/19/2008