Ovarian Cyst

Your Path

  • Ovarian Cyst

Etiology

  • Occur related to ovulation (functional); can regress spontaneously
  • While most cysts are benign, some can be malignant (cystic neoplasms)

Symptoms

  • Most cysts are asymptomatic
  • Can cause vague lower abdominal/pelvic area discomfort, particularly if large
  • Functional cysts tend to cause symptoms mid-cycle (mittelschmerz)
  • If cyst ruptures, can cause sub-acute lower abd/pelvic area pain

Physical Exam Findings

  • If asymptomatic, might detect adnexal mass on bi-manual exam
  • Cyst rupture can cause lower abdominal/pelvic area pain on affected side

Tests