Option for Complex Ovarian Cyst

[4031]

I am 51 years old.  Never pregnant.  Never had cysts before but ultrasound revealed "5.6 x 3.9 x 3.3 cm large right ovarian cystic lesion that is somewhat complex".  Also a 1.9 cm uteran fibroid and a large gallstone in the neck of the gallbladder.  I have numerous symptoms that are listed but these could also relate to gallbladder issues (I understand).  I also recently learned that I have high blood pressure (used to be low) and I have been on meds for this for two months and it is still pretty high in the morning.  

Maternal side of my family has been studied for years for the BRCA gene.  My mom and her two sisters all had breast cancer.  So far, one aunt has died from breast cancer with metas. to colon.  My other aunt recently found hers has metast. too (all over her body).  My mom breast cancer survivor.  I say all of this because these are all risk factors for ovarian cancer.  I had a mammogram August 2008 that came back normal, as did the pap.

My PCP felt the gallstone and cyst upon physical exam and ordered the ultrasound (done a week ago).  He is sending me back to the OBGYN and wants that group to coordinate with the general surgeon who I am consulting with about the gallbladder issue.  PCP, at minimum, wants a vaginal ultrasound to be done in one month, doesn't want to alarm me but all these risk factors aren't looking to good for me, I think.

Any advice, suggestions?  Opt for a hysterectomy to play it safe?  Laparotomy?  Some way to coordinate gall bladder treatment with this?  I already clearly know that if a hysterectomy is opted for, I need a GYN-ONC to perform that one.
Any help you could give me would be appreciated.  

Blessings

[4031]

Thank you so much for your words of wisdom.  I want to be prepared for my two doctor appointments this week (general surgeon and GYN) and you have been of great help.  

Blessings!  

[lvfrogs]

I can't say it better than what Trudie did, so I won't.  Just wanted to back her up and say that she has given you good advice. It would be wonderful if they could take care of the gallbladder at the same time. Two for the price of one! Ok, that won't happen,but one surgery for you would be wonderful.  I recently had two surgeries on the same day,  not so much fun lol.  I do want to say that I am sorry for the loss of your aunt.  With diagnosis of two aunts and your mother, you need to be vigilant.  Take care and please let us know what happens!

[TrudieC]

If it were me I'd opt for a laparotomy and complete hysterectomy.  Considering you are at the menopausal age and the other factors I'd take the opportunity to handle it all to avoid any future surgeries or other problems.  It would be wonderful if your gyn/onc could work with the general surgeon so you only have one surgery.  My advice is to keep on pushing all the characters involved.  There will be some coordination to bring this together and I agree that sooner is much better than later.  Knowledge is power and you are certainly using it to your advantage.  Good luck and please keep us posted.