OVARIAN CYSTS
DESCRIPTION |
|
|
Ovarian cysts are common and the vast
majority are harmless. Because they cause symptoms that may be the
same as ovarian tumors that may be cancerous, ovarian cysts should
always be checked out. The most common types of ovarian cysts are
follicular and corpus luteum, which are related to the menstrual
cycle. Follicular cysts occur when the cyst-like follicle on the
ovary in which the egg develops does not burst and release the egg.
They are usually small and harmless, disappearing within two to
three menstrual cycles. Corpus luteum cysts occur when the corpus
luteum--a small, yellow body that secretes hormones--doesn't
dissolve after the egg is released. They usually disappear in a few
weeks but can grow to more than 4 in (10 cm) in diameter and may
twist the ovary.
Ovarian cysts can develop any time from puberty to menopause,
including during pregnancy. Follicular cysts occur frequently during
the years when a woman is menstruating, and are non-existent in
postmenopausal women or any woman who is not ovulating. Corpus
luteum cysts occur occasionally during the menstrual years and
during early pregnancy. (Dermoid cysts, which may contain hair,
teeth, or skin derived from the outer layer of cells of an embryo,
are also occasionally found in the ovary.) |
|
|
| OVARIAN CYSTS RELATED ITEMS |
|
|
|
|
