Septated Cyst on Left Ovary

[karen5862]

I am a 43 year old woman who has had 4 breast biopsies over the last two years. The biospies showed that I have atypical ductal hyperplasia in both breasts; therefore my risk of BC is considered high. I am on Tamoxifen and have been for 1 year. I have annual Ultrasounds of the pelvic area because of this. in March, my US showed that I had cysts on my right ovary. I went back in 8 weeks for follow up and the US showed numerous cysts on right and left ovary. The Dr. said they appeared to be simple cysts, and were nothing to worry about.  I have been reading a lot about Ovarian cancer and its symptoms, and I started getting very nervous. I have IBS, which, from what I understand is often a mis diagnosis given to women with ovarian cancer. I have also been experiencing increased urination, and my stomach often bloats, looking like I am pregnant. I called my doctor and asked about getting a CA 125 test, but she advised against. She recommended another US. I just got those results and she said that the right ovary is ok, but there is a septated cyst on the left ovary that causes concern. The cyst has not changed since my last US in May.  I had the CA125 yesterday. I also have a surgical consult in two weeks to decide whether or not to remove the cyst, or ovary, and get a biopsy. Needless to say I am worried. How long does the CA125 test take to get back? Also, do you think removal of the cyst is something to consider? Personally, I am  ready to get the ovary removed, given what I have gone through with the breasts. Just wanted to talk to others who know what worrying is like.

[karen5862]

Good news! I just got my CA 125 Test back and it was normal (21.6). I also requested copies of my US report from my Ob/Gyn. The cyst on the left ovary is septated and is 2.9 x 1.4 x 1.7 cm and has not changed significantly since the last US done in May 2005(3 months ago), so I am a little concerned. The left ovary is enlarged (4.0 x 4.5 x 3.8 cm), but I would guess this is from the cyst? I am feeling better now that I know my CA 125 is low, but I still am anxious about the surgical consult. I really just want them to go in and remove the ovary, if they give me that option. I know most cysts are benign, but isn't it a bad sign if the cyst hasn't changed at all in 3 months (except grew 0.4 cm)? Thanks again for listening.

[MickeyVicki]

The CA-125 test results should be ready in a week, maybe a little less, but sometimes a little more.  However, the test is not reliable and often is of no help to a patient.  The test can give false positives as well as false negatives, as some tumors do not secrete the antigen measured by the test.  The test is more commonly used as a baseline marker against which post-surgery or post-treatment results can be measured.

I do not have any known increased risks for cancer, but prior to my surgery to remove a cyst (a very large endometrioma) last  year, I made the decision to have my doctor also remove my ovary and fallopian tube in the same surgery.  It was not worth the risk and costs of another surgery if the same thing grew on the ovary again.   I just wanted it over and done. By the way, my endometrioma was variously described in my medical reports as being "complex", which means septated, and as being "complex with solid components".   All of that sounded really scary, but it was found to be benign.  The ovary to which it was attached was described in one report as being "enlarged" but in fact it was just crushed out of shape by the large size of the cyst.

I am 42 years of age, so I can relate to your concerns about removing an ovary at our age.    I still have one ovary, sometimes have hot flashes, and have irregular monthly cycles, but all things considered, I feel better than I have in a long time.