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Ovarian Cancer (Expert Forum)
Removal of Ovarian Cyst?
Answered by
Annekathryn Goodman, M.D. - Gynecologic Cancers, Complex Gynecologic, Surgeries, Palliative Care, Acupuncture
Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions and support regarding ovarian cancer issues, such as: Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Clinical Trials, Genetics, Hysterectomy,Immunotherapy, Ovarian Cancer Types, Radiation Therapy, Risk Factors, Screening, Staging, Surgery.
Removal of Ovarian Cyst?
by bkedflex, Aug 12, 2006 12:00AM
A pelvic/abdominal CT scan showed a "left adnexal mass" (with no size given on the report). It states "it may be merely a cyst." "The right ovary shows a mass 4.7 cm x 4.1 cm, which contains calcifications and fat. Possible right dermoid should be considered."
Not sure what should be done about the left adnexal mass, if there is anything to do since the radiologist thinks it is a cyst. But with the "possible" right dermoid, would that need to be removed? I am 42 and have had bloating for about six to eight months. My abdomen used to go down somehwat in the morning, but for the past two weeks it remains bloated all the time. I also have "severe microcytic anemia."
I have an appointment with a new OB/GYN next week. Any advice is appreciated just so I know more or less what to expect especially about the dermoid. Thanks.
Not sure what should be done about the left adnexal mass, if there is anything to do since the radiologist thinks it is a cyst. But with the "possible" right dermoid, would that need to be removed? I am 42 and have had bloating for about six to eight months. My abdomen used to go down somehwat in the morning, but for the past two weeks it remains bloated all the time. I also have "severe microcytic anemia."
I have an appointment with a new OB/GYN next week. Any advice is appreciated just so I know more or less what to expect especially about the dermoid. Thanks.
Doctor's Answer
by Annekathryn Goodman, M.D., Aug 17, 2006 12:00AM
, Aug 17, 2006 12:00AM
Hi there,
It sounds like you should have some form of surgical intervention. The simplest procedure is a laparoscopy to look at the ovaries. Your bloating may from some thing else such as irritable bowel syndrome but it may be that the dermoid is causing this symptom. We definately should get some more information about the left adnexal mass. When you meet with your OB Gyn, you should ask her/him if the CT scan can be reviewed with the radiologist to get some clearer information.
Other tests that can help understand the ovaries include ultrasound or MRI. At your age, I would also recommend a CA 125 blood test. Those tests will be helpful to decide if a laparoscopy is reasonable or whether you should have a laparotomy. Also if the CA 125 is elevated, a discussion about removing the whole ovary is important. CA 125 levels can be elevated in benign conditions such as endometriosis but can be a marker for malignant change.
take care
It sounds like you should have some form of surgical intervention. The simplest procedure is a laparoscopy to look at the ovaries. Your bloating may from some thing else such as irritable bowel syndrome but it may be that the dermoid is causing this symptom. We definately should get some more information about the left adnexal mass. When you meet with your OB Gyn, you should ask her/him if the CT scan can be reviewed with the radiologist to get some clearer information.
Other tests that can help understand the ovaries include ultrasound or MRI. At your age, I would also recommend a CA 125 blood test. Those tests will be helpful to decide if a laparoscopy is reasonable or whether you should have a laparotomy. Also if the CA 125 is elevated, a discussion about removing the whole ovary is important. CA 125 levels can be elevated in benign conditions such as endometriosis but can be a marker for malignant change.
take care
Thank you, Doctor.
it sounds like you are getting the right follow up. Many cysts will have gone away when you check again. Wait and see what your next ultrasound shows
best wishes