Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or within an ovary. They are a common occurrence, particularly among women during their reproductive years. While many women may develop these cysts, they typically cause no symptoms and are often discovered incidentally during a pelvic exam or imaging. Most ovarian cysts are benign, meaning they are not cancerous and often resolve on their own without medical intervention.
Prevalence of Malignancy
The vast majority of ovarian cysts are non-cancerous, with about 95% being benign. In women under 50, fewer than 1% of ovarian cysts are malignant. For women over 50, the risk of a cyst being cancerous increases slightly, but it remains a small percentage.
Factors Influencing Risk
Several factors can influence the likelihood of an ovarian cyst being cancerous, though the overall risk remains low. Age is a significant factor, with the risk increasing particularly after menopause. While simple, fluid-filled cysts are almost always benign, complex cysts, which contain solid components, thicker fluid, or internal walls, carry a higher, though still rare, risk of malignancy.
The size of the cyst can also play a role; larger cysts may warrant closer monitoring. Certain types of cysts, such as some cystadenomas or dermoid cysts, are usually benign but can occasionally be malignant. Additionally, a family history of ovarian cancer or specific genetic mutations, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, can increase an individual’s risk.
Diagnostic Approaches
Healthcare providers use various methods to determine the nature of an ovarian cyst. A common initial tool is a pelvic ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries. This imaging helps assess the cyst’s location, size, and whether it is solid or fluid-filled. More detailed imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, may be used to gain a clearer view, especially for complex cysts.
Blood tests, like the CA-125 tumor marker, can also be part of the diagnostic process. Elevated CA-125 levels can sometimes indicate ovarian cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women. However, CA-125 levels can also be high due to non-cancerous conditions, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, making it an unreliable marker on its own, especially in premenopausal women.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many ovarian cysts are asymptomatic, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. These include persistent pelvic pain, abdominal bloating or pressure, and changes in bowel or bladder habits. Unexplained weight loss or feeling full quickly after eating small amounts of food also warrant a visit to a healthcare provider. If sudden, severe pelvic pain occurs, especially with nausea or vomiting, immediate medical help is advised.