complex cyst

[Marge123]

I am 54, post menopausal. Left ovary was removed at age 23 due to 10m cyst. Two months ago had transvaginal ultrasound for pelvic pain and then a CA125. Blood work was within normal limits; ultrasound showed two complex cysts (4.6cm & 8mm). Repeat ultrasound done today showed that they have grown and my GYN wants to remove my ovary. I would like to wait; she wants the ovary out now. How likely are they to be cancer and is her rush to surgery really necessary? Thank you.

[Cagney2712]

Glad to hear you were able to get an appointment with a good gyn. oncologist, and so quickly. That's great. Let us know how the appointment goes, and what he advises. I've read posts from so many women here who always say that you only get one chance to get this right,  so you made the right move going to see a gyn oncologist.

Karen

[Marge123]

I thank you both for your reply. I called my health insurance and asked them if they could recommend a GYN oncologist (there are none in my immediate area) and they were able to get me an appointment with one tomorrow! He visits our area every other Wednesday and I was fortunate that he will be in the area tomorrow and is willing to see me. This doctor has excellent credentials and is head of GYN oncology at the hospital he practices at. I've got my fingers crossed that he will be able to help me.
Marge

[Cagney2712]

While the odds are that they are benign, there's no way to know for certain until they are removed and pathology done. The fact that you are post menopausal, and that they have actually gotten larger over the past 2 months, would indicate they are not normal functional cysts. That doesn't mean they are definitely cancer,  but I would not wait if I were you!!  I'm 53 and I had a TAH/BSO this past Feb. for a 5cm complex cyst. It turned out to be Stage 1A,  but because it was caught so early, I did not need any chemo. If it would happen to be cancer, you absolutely want to get it as early as possible!!!!

Have your gyn refer you asap to a gyn. oncologist. They should either do the surgery, or at least be present when it's done, since if there is any possibility it might be cancer, they are the best to do a thorough, accurate staging, and that's key to a successful outcome. I'm so glad I didn't wait longer, as I  would likely not have been as lucky.  Get it over with if for no other reason than you'll drive yourself crazy worrying while you continue to wait.

Karen

[Casey06]

Hi Marge,

I agree with rmarie.

Why do you want to wait, especially if you are post-menopausal.
I would not if I were you. Find a Gyn/Onc to do the surgery as soon as possible.

We are not trying to scare you, but the only way to know if it is cancerous is through pathology done during/after surgey. A growing complex cyst is a little suspicious.

I had everything out 3 weeks ago because of a a symptomatic cyst that turned out to be borderline cancer, so I have no regrets (I am 45 and was pre-menopausal). Surgery was done by gyn/onc and I am recovering and will be fine in a few weeks.

Take care of yourself and keep us posted of your decision.

[rmarie]

I wrote this yesterday in response to a question on a complex cyst. they need further investigation, it could be functional, but that is usually pre menopausal.  the risk of cancer with complex cyst increases post menopause.  I would recommend that you see a Gyn/Onc, or at least available if it turns out to be cancer.  I say this because they give us the best chance of surviving if it is bad.  Additionally  they have additional 3 years of training in women's health.  And if it is cancer YOU HAVE to have them operating, or available to take over the surgery.  Did you have a copy of the ultra sound?  I would get them out.  Good luck, keep us posted