complicated ovarian cyst

[Louies_Mom]

hi,
I've had abdominal / rectal pain for over 5 weeks.  A sigmoidoscopy showed no problems other than a slight internal hemorrhoid.  I had an abdominal ultrasound 1 week ago that showed a uterine fibroid (unsure of size) and a "complicated ovarian cyst" of about 4 cm x 4 cm.

WHAT DEFINES A COMPLICATED CYST?  Must they always be removed?  Can they be drained?  Should I have the CA 125 bloodtest?

my doctor is ill and I'm going nuts waiting for "real answers".  Any info will be appreciated / considered until my doctor returns.  thank you!!!

[SimplyStar]

On the health pages    you will find a lot of info about cysts,    go to cysts and symptoms  Health pages are located to the right of this forum   Marty

[Louies_Mom]

THANKS for your info.  

I think that complicated cysts are "more than fluid filled".  I still haven't found any direct info about them anywhere.  I was told this morning that they're referring me to a gynecologist (I've just seen a general practitioner and a nurse pracitioner in gynecology).

Any other info on these is appreciated from anyone.

THANKS,
Kathy

[chloe08]

Complicated, assuming this means the same as 'complex' refers to a cyst that is anything but just fluid filled (ie/ blood, solid matter, endometrial tissue).
They do not always need to be removed but they often are depending on the size and the overall appearance of the cyst.  Once a cyst gets big it can cause problems including torsion/twisting which is extremely painful.
Often times women are told to watch and wait but if you are uncomfortable w/ this push for further tests to confirm what it may be as the only way to really know is via biopsy.
Fibroids of the uterus can cause pain  as well.  

[Louies_Mom]

THANKS for your info!  

I'm being referred to a gynecology physician, which relieves me.  They've also said they're going to do another ultrasound in 6 weeks.

[jonzbeach]

I have a complex cyst as well..mine is 10 cm..I am 46yo.  Mine is complex because it is septated.which means it is divided by a wall.  The thickness of the septation determines the more worrisome the cyst.   I did have a CA-125 test today as a matter of fact..and I too am sick with worry.  I get copies of all my diagnostic evaluations so I have the info.  
A CA-125 is not perfect barometer for depending ovarian CA, it is a tool in the diagnostic process and I believe at some point perhaps in the monitoring of someone with cysts.  I am set for a laposcopy in a few weeks.  Be determined in your healthcare, be informed.  Good luck.