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Ovarian Cyst
Medical Questions » Ovarian Cyst
| Name: Ovarian Cyst |
| Also known as: |
| A cyst (fluid-filled sac) that occurs in the ovary. Usually less than 5cm across, but rarely they may form giant cysts the size of a football. Several types are known including follicular cysts, luteal cysts, cysts caused by infections of the ovary and tubes, cysts associated with endometriosis (see separate entry), and in rare cases cysts associated with some types of ovarian cancers. |
Causes of Ovarian Cyst
Every time a woman releases an egg from her ovary it is surrounded by a tiny sac of fluid, and some women experience a slight stab of pain (mittelschmerz) as the fluid around the egg is released with ovulation in the middle of each month. If these normal tiny cysts re-form and enlarge after releasing the egg, a cyst of the ovary results. |
Symptoms of Ovarian Cyst
Follicular cysts: the woman is often not aware that the cyst is present unless it is discovered at surgery, or bursts. They cause some irregularity of the periods, but if a cyst bursts, the woman experiences sudden, severe pain on one side, low down in her abdomen. The pain eases slowly over several hours or days, as the irritating fluid contained in the cyst disperses. They are quite common in teenage girls and young women. Luteal cysts: cause delayed or irregular periods and rarely any other trouble. |
Tests for Ovarian Cyst
Diagnosed by an ultrasound scan of the lower abdomen. |
Treatment for Ovarian Cyst
Follicular cysts: women who develop them frequently can be given the oral contraceptive pill, which will prevent ovulation, and therefore the formation of further cysts. The pill will also shrink existing cysts, but large cysts need to be removed surgically. Luteal cysts: no treatment necessary unless the cyst is very large, when it must be surgically removed.
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Complications of Ovarian Cyst of its treatment
Infertility may occur until a large cyst is removed. The fluid from a ruptured cyst may cause inflammation of the bowel and other abdominal organs which results in adhesion formation. |
Likely Outcome of Ovarian Cyst
Generally very good. |
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