Can malignancy be detected via ultrasound?

[Toobusy1971]

I received my results from a pelvic (transabdominal & endovaginal) ultrasound. In the conclusion, the doctor stated "Complex mass in the left ovary measuring 3 cm. This contains cystic and solid components. The differential includes benign and malignant lesions." My question is, since I know that ultrasound can be very very detailed now, is it truly possible that the doctor was able to tell that the mass is at least partially malignant, or was that an "irresponsible" or incorrect way to phrase it because you cannot tell for FACT if a mass has malignancy by ultrasound alone? If he stated malignant, does that in fact mean that he likely spotted an area that shows signs of definite malignancy? I do have a follow up appt. with a OBGYN/ONC, however they can't get me in for over a week, and of course its making me nuts. If in fact it is likely malignant, fine, I'd just like to know. Not knowing is maddening! Thank you for your help...

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

HI There,
it is not possible to diagnose a malignancy by radiology
that requires surgical removal

I agree with all the comments. most cysts and ovarian growths are benign
but cysts that are complex, growing, or causing pain that persists usually should be removed surgically

[Twosandbits]

Thank you, let me know how you get on with your follow up appointment!

Best wishes,

Rachel

[Toobusy1971]

I don't have endometriosis that I know of. I'm not sure of anything right now. I've never know I've had anything going on 'down there' until now. Thanks for your response & good luck to you too.

[yodelady_7]

I would bet that "The differential includes benign and malignant lesions" was an awkward way to say that it could be either benign or malignant.  I think they can't know for sure until they remove it and look at it under a microscope.

[Twosandbits]

Hi

I found out that I had a complex mass on my right ovary by CT scan, I then had a blood test for a hormone called CA-125 that is used as tumor markers for malignant and benign growths. My level was high so I was sent for an MRI Scan and had to wait a week for the results (I know how you feel, it was a long hard week.

When the results came back my consultant did not think the mass was malignant so I have a follow up appointment at the end of June, I'm guessing to discuss surgery. I also suffer from Endometriosis which they suspect has caused the mass as this happened to my left ovary about 4 years ago and I had to have my ovary removed :-(

Do you suffer from Endometriosis? I'm sorry I can only tell you my experience and not really answer your question. My belief is that they cannot 100% rule out malignancy without doing a biopsy, I could however be totally wrong.

Good luck and best wishes

Rachel

P.S does anyone know what happened to the Endometriosis Forum, it seems to have gone missing???