Complex Cystic Lesion

[MoBo1728]

My mother was recently diagnosed with having a complex cysic lesion on her left ovary. The size is 9 x 7 X 6 cm. It wasn't detected until a catscan was performed this month. However, last month she received her yearly pap which revealed no problems. She was given a blood test today that is suppose to reveal if she may have ovarian cancer. I would like to know what exactly a "compex cystic lesion" is and how serious it may be.

[rmarie]

The yearly pap would not detect anything ovarian, interesting that it wasn't felt on internal exam.  Cysts that size are usually surgically removed.  You will not know how serious the complex cyst is until the surgery and a biopsy.  They may want a transvaginal ultrasound in addition to the CT scan, it will show the cyst much better.  As Elizabeth has said the CA 125 elevates for a number of reasons.  Keep us posted.  marie

[hatgal]

Hi - Although I don't know what/where the lesion would be (possibly on the surface of the cyst itself?) I do know that a complex cyst involves solid matter and one that size would need further evaluation.  I also want to let you know that under no circumstance does a pap test test for ovarian issues; it only tests for cervix issues.  The blood test she is having today may be the CA125 which is a test to mainly monitor the progress of ovarian cancer if one has it.  As most will say on this forum, it does not indicate the cancer.  The initial test can be elevated for several reasons - endometriosis, fibroids, etc.  It is a common blood test that doctors do when you have a cyst that size but an elevated level may also indicate to them the cyst, fibroids, endo issues, etc.  I hope that makes sense.  There will be smarter women to come along and answer your post as well or correct me if I've made a mistake.  I've had complex cysts removed before that were benign and also have fibroids, adeno, etc.  I've also been on this forum reading posts and learning alot from these wonderful women for almost a year now so that is why I felt I could respond to your inquiry.

My best to you and your Mom...... Elizabeth