Ovarian Cysts

An ovarian cyst is any collection of fluid within the ovary. Some of these, called functional cysts, are part of the normal process of menstruation. Any ovarian follicle that is larger than about two centimeters is termed an ovarian cyst. Specific types of cyst include graafian follicles or corpus luteum cysts. Other cysts are pathological, such as those found in polycystic ovary syndrome, or those associated with tumors.

About 95% of ovarian cysts are benign; those that persist beyond two or three menstrual cycles, or occur in post-menopausal women may indicate more serious disease and should be investigated through ultrasonography and laparoscopy, especially in cases where other family members have had ovarian cancer. Such cysts may require surgical biopsy. Additionally, a blood test may be taken before surgery to check for elevated CA-125, a tumor marker, which is often found in increased levels in ovarian cancer, although it can also be elevated by other conditions resulting in a large number of false positives.

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Related Links:

• US National Library of Medicine
• Mayo Clinic

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