What does cystic structure in the left ovary mean?

Cystic structures in the left ovary usually refer to ovarian cystic lesions found on ultrasound examination, which may be physiological cysts or pathological cysts. Physiological cysts such as corpus luteum cysts and follicular cysts are mostly benign and can resolve on their own. ； Pathological cysts include ovarian cystadenoma, endometrioma, etc., which require further evaluation.

1. Physiological cyst

Physiological cysts are related to women’s menstrual cycle and are common during the childbearing years. Follicular cysts are formed by unruptured or atretic follicles, usually less than 5 cm in diameter, and often have no special symptoms. ； A corpus luteum cyst is caused by the persistence or bleeding of the corpus luteum and may be accompanied by slight lower abdominal distension. This type of cyst usually absorbs naturally after 2-3 menstrual cycles and does not require special treatment, but regular ultrasound examinations are required to observe changes.

2. Ovarian cystadenoma

Ovarian cystadenomas are benign tumors, including serous cystadenoma and mucinous cystadenoma. Serous cystadenoma has a thin wall, contains clear fluid, and can be up to 10 cm in diameter. ； The cyst fluid of mucinous cystadenoma is viscous and may compress adjacent organs when larger in size. Both require surgical resection. After pathological diagnosis, laparoscopic cyst removal or affected side adnexectomy can be selected.

3. Endometriosis cyst

Endometriosis cysts, commonly known as chocolate cysts, are caused by ectopic implantation of endometrial tissue in the ovaries. There was old blood accumulation in the cyst, and ultrasound showed ground glass echo. Most patients have progressive dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia or infertility, and CA125 may be slightly elevated. Treatment needs to be combined with age and fertility needs, and drug suppression or laparoscopic surgery can be selected.

4. Teratoma

Mature teratomas are common ovarian germ cell tumors. The cysts may contain tissue such as oil and hair, and strong echo masses with sound shadows can be seen on ultrasound. Although it is benign, pedicle torsion may occur and cause acute abdomen, and surgical resection is recommended. Immature teratomas are malignant tumors and require extended surgery and chemotherapy.

5. Ovarian cancer

Ovarian malignancies can also present as cystic-solid structures, such as serous cystadenocarcinoma. Ultrasound shows that the cyst has thick walls, many septa- tions, and abundant blood flow, which may be accompanied by ascites and significantly elevated CA125. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed through pathological examination, and the main treatment is cytoreduction surgery combined with chemotherapy. Postmenopausal women need to be particularly alert to the possibility of malignant transformation of new cysts.

After the cystic structure of the left ovary is discovered, tumor marker examination should be completed, and changes should be observed with ultrasound after 3-6 months. Avoid strenuous exercise to prevent the cyst from rupturing or twisting the pedicle. If you have persistent abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or a rapidly enlarging cyst, you need to see a gynecologist promptly. Women preparing for pregnancy need to evaluate the impact of cysts on fertility and treat them before pregnancy if necessary.