What is a Dermoid Cyst in the ovary?

dermoid-cyst

A Dermoid cyst is one of those strange cysts that can develop in the ovary. Is develops in a different location in the ovary than regular ovarian cysts. This type of cyst develops in a type of totipotential cell. It is called this way because these tissues or cells can produce any type of tissue. For this reason many times these dermoid cysts can have teeth, thyroid tissue, hair, bone, oil glands of the skin…you name it.

The average age for getting these is the age of 30. Usually women who develop these cysts will have them in both ovaries. They also can grow quite large sometimes up to 17 inches or more. One thing good is that they are usually benign. Only about 2% can turn cancerous.

They can develop complication especially if they get too large. They can rupture and cause pain and the build up of  scars in the pelvic area. But the most serious complication is that of torsion and twisting of the ovary which is a medical emergency.

Severe lower abdomen pain is the most common symptom if there is twisting. The reason for this is that the twisting stops the circulation to the ovary.

These cysts are also know as teratomas.

The best treatment for this type of cyst is surgical removal.