“Cyst” is a term used for a structure that is filled with fluid and which may or may not represent a tumor.  Many times cysts form in one or both ovaries. They may vary in size from few millimeters to many centimeters, sometimes filing the entire abdomen. They may be single or multiple, may be present in one or both the ovaries, may be benign or malignant, may cause symptoms or may be entirely asymptomatic and may be just diagnosed by chance.

Common types of ovarian cysts seen in the gynecological practice.

• • Physiological cysts

• • Follicular cysts

• • Simple benign ovarian cysts

• • Germ cell ovarian tumors

• • Endometriotic cysts

• • Polycystic ovary

• • Malignant ovarian cysts

Common Symptoms

• • No symptoms,

• • Weight gain or weight loss

• • Heaviness, Pain or dull ache in abdomen

• • Loss of appetite

• • Menstrual disturbances like absent, scanty, irregular periods

• • Painful periods

• • Pain during sexual intercourse, painful bowel movements

• • Pressure symptoms on the neighboring structures

Investigations done to diagnose ovarian cyst:

• • Ultrasound

• • Computed Tomography (CT)

• • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Role of Tumor Markers

Tumor markers are chemicals which are found in the blood, urine or some tissues of patients with certain types of ovarian cysts. They are typically produced by the tumor cells while in some cases they may be produced by the body in response to malignancy or some benign tumors. These tumor markers may not be elevated in all types of ovarian cysts specially with an early disease. These markers are often used for screening, diagnosis, prognosis, assessing therapeutic response and detecting recurrences.

Common ovarian tumor markers -FSH, LH, beta HCG, AFP, CA-125, HE4, Inhibin, CEA, SCC antigen, Mullerian inhibiting substance (MIS), carbohydrate antigen19-9, cancer antigen 27-29, Human Telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)

Dr Anjali Kumar is a gynecologist of repute in Gurgaon with vast and rich 25 years of experience in treating all kinds of gynecological ailments. She is a skilled laparoscopic surgeon, trained at the best institutes. A patient diagnosed with an ovarian cyst is thoroughly evaluated by her. All options and treatment modalities including medical managements, conservative observational approach and surgical treatments are then discussed in detail with the patient and family.
Book your appointment with Dr Anjali Kumar for ovarian cyst treatment in Gurgaon.