Dermoid tumor being downplayed by doctors

As far back as I can remember Ive suffered from intermittent lower abdominal pain on the right side. At the age of 16, I had fluid laproscopically removed, and told that my abdomen troubles were bowel related. 14 years later, I have visited numerous ERs with the same complaint-severe right side pain.  Have also visited the gastro-intestinal specialist and was diagnosed with IBS (they didn't know what was wrong so that was the diagnosis).  Back in April 2006, I suddenly had an attack 100 times worse than I've ever experienced.  I finally went for an ultrasound & Xray and was diagnosed with a 4.2 cm dermoid tumor on my right ovary.  My OBGYN does not want to operate as it is less than 5 cm and my symptoms do not match those of a dermoid tumor & he claims they are extremely slow growing..likely had it all my life.  He did send me for a CA125 test late last week - the results are still pending.  Here are my symptoms: 1) severe abdominal bloating (I look 5-6 months pregnant) a week before, during & after my period (2) Extreme nausea with a lack of appetite (3) stabbing & some times cramping right abdominal pain (4) Stabing pain at my waist & back - on the right side (5) Weight gain despite not being able to eat more than half a bowl of soup (6) extreme fatigue & general unwell feeling (7) higher than normal blood pressure with ankle swelling.  Anyone else have a similar experience?  I am going to see an Internal Med specialist next week and have a 2nd ultrasound booked for Aug 2. I am frustrated and terrified at the same time.  Any words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated!

[DaneGirl]

To add to my first post, my additional symptoms are a general full feeling in my abdomen, frequent urination, and off and on diahreah & constipation.

[MickeyVicki]

Have you ever been diagnosed with PCOS?

[Anna-maria74]

A dermoid cyst does not have its own distinct set of symtoms (symptoms) did you perhaps mean that it doesnt have the characteristics of a dermoid? In any event I had every symptom you described right down to the swollen feet - although my tumor was 20cm. Mine was dx as a dermoid initially but I was told after surgery it was not a dermoid at all, as yet I dont know what it was actually!

Anna x

[DaneGirl]

Thank you for the responses. The only info my GP gave me and my OBGYN was that it was a dermoid. I am in Canada, and my experience with the doctors here is they are very protective of the information they give out....not sure why.

Since I am still new here, what is PCOS?

I am going to see what the internist says when I see him on Wednesday...hopefully he can give a second opinion of some sort.

I also go back to my OBGYN on Aug 8 to discuss my options & test results from my 2nd ultra sound.  So, if the answer he gives me is not satisfactory, I will look at getting into another gyn preferably with onc experience.  The only difficult part here is getting into see a specialist without waiting 6-9 months AND getting a referral.  I got in to see my gyn early because I was a pre-existing patient.

I really appreciate all of the information provided on this site.  Although I am scared to death of what this could potentially be, I feel better reading everyones words of comfort and support.  I have a family history of breast cancer on both sides - my aunt & grandma are both survivors of breast cancer. Thankfully there is no history of ovarian cancer, but from what I've read, it may not matter. Thank you for your prayers and I'll keep you posted with what transpires.

[Careylyn]

I highly recommend you see a gyn/onc.  You have suffered far too long.  A gyn/onc will be able to get the "facts" of the situation most directly, this is their specialty.  It is not only your body, but this is YOUR LIFE.  I am not trying to scare you, but the severity of these "unknowns" should really be directed to a gyn/onc  to save you time and so many additional questions and added tests.  My prayers are with you, Carelyn

[Gatsby]

HI and welcome.  I had 2 softball sized dermoids removed 12/21/05.  I would suggest that you get a 2nd opinion with a gyn/onc.  They are specialists and have seen it all.  Although 99% of dermoids are benign, you are wise in seeking medical attention.  You should not be left to suffer the pain that you are experiencing.  Please get a 2nd opinion, as it can't hurt.  You are in my thoughts and prayers. Godspeed
~Tascha

[calishmo]

hello! I was just diagnosed with a very small dermoid and my doctor insisted I have it out no matter how small as it is a risk for cancer. I am only 20 and they were still concerned so I suggest you push to have this taken out no matter what! Don't worry about being rude it's worth it. Hope

[Godchick]

Hi i just wanted to tell you i recently found out i have a dermoid on my left ovary and i am 5 months pregnant.But before this i had all the same symptoms you had and went to the ER alot...Noone could explain what was the problemi knew there was something wrong with me..As to now i feel pain and discomfort and still have it...All i wanted to tell you was have faith in God he will get you through this .That's what i'm doing...