|
|
Ovarian Cysts
Alternate Names : Functional Ovarian Cysts, Physiologic Ovarian Cysts
Definition Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid or a semisolid material that develops on or within the ovary.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Typically, ovarian cysts are functional (not disease related) and disappear on their own. During the days preceding ovulation, a follicle grows. At the time of expected ovulation, the follicle fails to rupture and release an egg.
Instead of being reabsorbed, the fluid within the follicle persists and forms a cyst. Functional cysts usually disappear within 60 days without treatment and are relatively common. They occur most often during childbearing years (puberty to menopause), but may occur at any time. No known risk factors have been identified.
Functional ovarian cysts are not to be confused with other disease conditions involving ovarian cysts, specifically benign cysts of different types that must be treated to resolve, true ovarian tumors (including ovarian cancer) or hormonal conditions, such as polycystic ovarian disease.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Ovarian Cysts Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Ovarian Cysts Symptoms & Signs
• Ovarian Cysts Prevention
• Ovarian Cysts Diagnosis & Tests
• Ovarian Cysts Treatment
• Ovarian Cysts Prognosis
• Ovarian Cysts Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Menopause
• Ovarian Cancer
• Stein-Leventhal Syndrome
Tests & Exams
• Diagnostic Laparoscopy
• HCG - Qualitative - Serum
• Pregnancy Test
• Ultrasound
Surgery & Procedures
• Abdominal Exploration
Other Topics
• Cysts
• Menstruation - Absent
• Sexual Intercourse - Painful
• Vaginal Bleeding Between Periods
Review Date : 1/30/2002
Reviewed By : Catherine S. Bradley, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
