ovarian cysts vs. ovarian cancer

[MAZ0507]

I had a routine Ob/Gyn visit to find out that I have an Ovarian Cysts on my left Ovary.  I am 48 yrs old.  I informed my doctor that I hadn't had my period for 15months and just had a menstrual period a few weeks ago.  My doctor felt that I needed a sonogram and as a result, he determined that I had an Ovarian Cyst.  He ordered a CA-125 blood tests to rule out cancer.  My question is:  Can the doctor determine if the problem is really a cyst or cancer by looking at the sonogram?  Would he tell me it was a cyst because he is not sure?

[MinnieWM]

The radiologist can tell a lot since ovarian cancer usually has septations (fences) and excrescences   (or protrusions) in the mass.  I'm sure the doctor will keep watch on the cyst to look for changes.  Sometimes they go away entirely on their own.

Good luck . . . Minnie

[TrudieC]

Do keep in mind that the CA-125 test is not all that reliable.  If it is extremely high it can help them gear their mind towards cancer, but it can be negative with a malignancy and positive with endometriosis, infections, etc.  It is usually used as a monitoring test for women with ovarian cancer during their treatment.  

[MAZ0507]

thank you for your info.  i guess i just have to wait it out until the CA-125 report comes in.  He said it should take about a week.  I only went yesterday.  I am a little impatient

[MarieMichele]

They can have strong feelings one way or the other based on tests, but they cannot have absolute certainty.  The one way to know for sure is removal of the cyst and pathology of it.