Left ovarian cyst

An ovarian cyst is a benign neoplasm in the form of a cavity of liquid contents that occurs as a result of a tumor process. Most often, this diagnosis of a left ovarian cyst is made in women of childbearing age, less often such a pathology is detected in women over fifty.

Every month, a small sac called the dominant follicle or Graf's follicle forms in the ovary of a healthy woman.

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Causes left ovarian cysts

Based on medical practice, a cyst of the left ovary is formed due to little-studied factors. For example, the formation of a dermoid cyst on the left occurs when the embryonic development of tissues is disrupted, as a result of hormonal changes in the body during puberty, with the onset of menopause, or after an abdominal injury.

The phenomenon of polycystic disease is related to hormonal problems. Along with insulin resistance (insulin sensitivity is absent), the pancreas activates insulin production. As is known, insulin is a hormone responsible for the absorption and content of glucose in the blood. As a result of excess insulin in the ovaries, the level of male hormones (androgens) increases, preventing the maturation of the egg and its release.

Common causes of left ovarian cysts:

• early onset of first menstruation (before 11 years);
• pathologies related to follicular maturation;
• endocrine problems (hormonal imbalance, hypothyroidism);
• previous abortions;
• menstrual irregularities (irregular cycle, etc.);
• presence of a history of previous cystic forms;
• the use of tamoxifen in the fight against breast cancer;
• infectious diseases of the genital organs;
• inflammation of the ovaries/fallopian tubes;
• previous operations on the pelvic organs.

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Pathogenesis

Every month, a small sac called the dominant follicle or Graf's follicle forms in the ovary of a healthy woman.

This natural cyst serves as an environment for the maturation of the egg. By the middle of the monthly cycle, the dominant follicle bursts, providing the egg with access to the fallopian tube for possible fertilization. In place of the follicle, the corpus luteum is formed, the main task of which is to maintain the hormonal background for full gestation.

The reasons why the follicle does not rupture and gradually increases in size with fluid accumulation have not been fully identified. This process is called a follicular/retention cyst. In some cases, the corpus luteum itself is transformed into a cyst. These two pathologies account for 90% of clinical practice and are included in the group of functional (physiological) formations. Such cysts are found on one of the ovaries and can reach five or more centimeters in diameter. After several weeks or months, the benign neoplasm can disappear on its own.

A cyst of the left or right ovary is formed in parallel with pathological conditions of the ovaries:

• the cause of the hemorrhagic formation is bleeding into a functional cyst, which is accompanied by a dull, pulling pain in the lower abdomen (on the corresponding side);
• dermoid processes are characterized by the presence of hair, cartilage, bone structures predominantly of one of the ovaries. This occurs due to the fact that cells that serve to form other organs penetrate into the ovarian cavity. Such pathology often requires surgical treatment;
• endometrioid cysts contain blood that penetrates the ovary during the destructive effects of endometriosis. The disease manifests itself as menstrual pain, as well as unsuccessful attempts to conceive a baby;
• cystadenomas – reach gigantic sizes (up to 30 cm), do not manifest themselves in any way;
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common disease, which manifests itself as the growth of multiple cysts of varying diameters. It is accompanied by cycle failure, an increase in the number of male sex hormones, and infertility;
• cancer damage - manifested by slow growth of cystic formations.

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Symptoms left ovarian cysts

Cystic formations often develop asymptomatically. A woman learns about the presence of a functional cyst (based on practice, they account for 90% of all clinical cases) during a routine examination or other studies. Discomfort occurs in situations where a functional cyst grows to an impressive size.

The following symptoms of a left ovarian cyst are distinguished:

• pulling pain, mainly on the left side of the lower abdomen;
• the appearance of light vaginal discharge not related to menstruation;
• acute pain syndrome occurring in the middle of menstruation, in the lower abdomen (often on the left), followed by spotting vaginal discharge; •
• pain in the lower abdomen, the peak of which is observed after physical exertion or sexual intercourse;
• state of nausea;
• irregular periods;
• the emergence of the need for frequent false urges to urinate and defecate;
• constipation;
• increase in body weight;
• increase in temperature to 39 C;
• a feeling of pressure from within, tension in the abdominal area;
• tachycardia.

A left ovarian cyst may manifest itself as bloating/enlargement of the abdomen, a feeling of fullness or distension. Polycystic ovary syndrome is often accompanied by excessive facial hair, excessive sebum secretion, acne, and cardiovascular problems.

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Forms

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Corpus luteum cyst of the left ovary

Luteal cystic neoplasm or corpus luteum cyst of the left ovary is formed from the corpus luteum in the cortex of the ovary.

The corpus luteum is the endocrine cells left after a ruptured follicle, producing progesterone and dying off as a new ovulation approaches.

If the corpus luteum does not regress in time, blood circulation in it is disrupted, resulting in the formation of a cystic cavity. According to general clinical practice, such a neoplasm occurs in 2-5% of cases.

What is a corpus luteum cyst of the left ovary and what are the reasons for its appearance? A luteal cyst grows up to 8 cm, is filled with a reddish-yellowish liquid, and is characterized by a smooth rounded surface. The factors influencing the growth of the formation have been little studied. Among the main reasons, doctors highlight: hormonal instability, problems with blood circulation. Moreover, a cyst of the left ovary can form both during pregnancy and without it.

The formation of a cyst can be provoked by:

• medicinal substances that simulate the release of an egg from a follicle;
• the use of drugs for the purpose of preparing for in vitro fertilization (for example, clomiphene citrate);
• use of pharmacological means of emergency contraception;
• excessive mental or physical fatigue;
• obsession with diets, poor nutrition;
• the presence of frequent or chronic diseases of the fallopian tubes and ovaries;
• frequent miscarriages.

Clinically, a corpus luteum cyst has no manifestations. It often goes away on its own, leaving the woman completely unaware.

Luteal cysts, as a rule, do not develop into malignant formations.

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Endometrioid cyst of the left ovary

Endometriosis is the growth of tissue, which makes up the uterine mucosa, into nearby organs. The size of an endometrioid cyst ranges from 0.6 to 10 cm. In its structure, this type of cyst resembles a strong capsule 0.2-1.5 cm thick with adhesions on the surface. The cyst cavity is filled with brown contents, which are the remains of blood released during menstruation, as in the uterine cavity.

The reasons why an endometrioid cyst of the left ovary develops have not been fully studied and are limited to a number of theories, among which are:

• the mechanism of reverse entry of cells from the uterine cavity into the fallopian tubes during menstruation;
• "transfer" of cells from the uterine lining into the ovary during surgical manipulation;
• penetration of epithelium into the ovarian area via lymph/blood;
• hormonal disorders, dysfunction of the ovaries, hypothalamus, pituitary gland;
• problems of the immune type.

The symptoms of the disease are characterized by acute aching pain, increasing periodically, radiating to the lumbar region and rectum, and worsening during menstruation.

Endometrioid cysts of the left ovary and right ovary are classified into stages:

• the first - new formations appear in the form of single dots;
• the second - the cyst grows to a small/medium size, adhesions of the pelvic region are revealed (without damage to the rectum);
• the third - cystic formations up to 6 cm are formed on both ovaries (both left and right). Endometrioid processes appear on the uterus and fallopian tubes, the walls of the pelvic area. Adhesions cover the intestinal area;
• fourth – endometrioid cysts reach their maximum size, the pathological focus spreads to nearby organs.

This type of cyst may not have any pronounced symptoms. Patients with such pathology consult a specialist only if they are unable to conceive a child. In this case, it is necessary to initially get rid of the cyst, and then plan the conception of a new life.

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Follicular cyst of the left ovary

A follicular cyst is nothing more than an enlarged follicle with a thin capsule wall filled with fluid. The size of such a neoplasm is no more than 8 cm. This type of cystic formation is most often found in girls during puberty.

Follicular cysts of the left ovary occur with the same frequency as those of the right. The size of such cysts is no more than 6 cm. No symptoms may be observed during their formation. In rare cases, there is an increase in the female hormone estrogen. The clinical picture is complemented by irregular menstruation, acyclic bleeding, and aching pain in the lower abdomen.

If the follicular cyst is larger than 7 cm, there is a risk of twisting the stalk with vessels and nerve endings. The process is accompanied by acute pain in the abdomen, and the patient's condition deteriorates sharply, which requires immediate hospitalization.

During ovulation (in the middle of the cycle), a cyst may rupture, which is characterized by severe pain. Such a neoplasm does not prevent a possible pregnancy. It should be noted that during the hormonal restructuring of the follicular type, the formation passes on its own closer to the 20th week of gestation. However, the situation requires continuous gynecological monitoring.

Treatment is based on the use of hormonal drugs (estrogen or gestagen) for up to two months. If conservative therapy does not produce results, this is a reason for surgery.

Left ovarian cyst during pregnancy

A woman with an endometriosis formation in the ovarian cavity cannot conceive for a long time, which is the only reason to contact a specialist, since this cyst does not reveal itself in any way. It is advisable to think about pregnancy after the removal of the cystic formation.

An endometriotic cyst of the left ovary during pregnancy does not serve as a contraindication to childbirth only in cases where it is small in size and does not compress nearby organs. Endometrioid heterotopias, on the contrary, pose a risk of termination of pregnancy, therefore they require constant medical supervision.

A follicular cyst during pregnancy may go away on its own, but also requires increased monitoring.

A serous formation on the ovary up to 3 cm does not affect the development of the fetus and the course of pregnancy, which cannot be said about large cystomas. Already from the 12th week of gestation, when the uterus is actively growing and rising into the abdominal area, there is a risk of torsion of the cystic pedicle. The pathological condition is eliminated surgically, which often provokes a miscarriage.

A small mucinous cyst of the left ovary increases the risk of miscarriage and emergency situations leading to surgical intervention. A woman should remove the mucinous neoplasm, undergo a two-month rehabilitation and only then plan to conceive.

Luteal formation or corpus luteum cyst during pregnancy is a necessary source for maintaining normal levels of hormones responsible for the preservation of pregnancy and atrophies by the 18th week of gestation. But the absence of this neoplasm is a cause for concern and threatens spontaneous termination of pregnancy.

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Functional cyst of the left ovary

The ovulation process is accompanied by the formation of a cavity with a mature egg on the surface of the ovary. After the egg is released, the cavity disappears on its own. For reasons unclear to medicine, the egg is not released or fluid is pumped into the cavity. This is how a benign tumor occurs - a functional cyst of the left ovary / right ovary. The very name of the cystic formation indicates the main factors that provoke the pathology - ovarian dysfunction and hormonal imbalance.

Predisposing causes of the disease include frequent inflammations of the genital area, prolonged stress and physical fatigue, overheating or hypothermia of the body.

Functional cysts are differentiated by the type of disorder and cycle phase:

• follicular - the follicle does not rupture, the egg does not come out. The cavity is filled with liquid contents, not with corpus luteum cells. The follicle turns into a 60 mm cyst;
• luteal - formed immediately after ovulation (the follicle burst, the egg was released), when a corpus luteum cyst is formed with fluid inside or with an admixture of blood.

Functional type tumors are not malignant and do not have pronounced symptoms unless they reach enormous sizes. The main complaints include menstrual cycle irregularities (long periods or delays), spotting in the middle of the cycle. Painful sensations on the left side of the lower abdomen manifest themselves with a significant increase in the functional cyst of the left ovary.

Common complications include:

• torsion of the cystic pedicle;
• rupture of the neoplasm during sexual intercourse/physical activity;
• hemorrhage into the cystic cavity.

Functional cysts usually go away on their own, but may require surgery.

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Two-chamber cyst of the left ovary

A neoplasm with two chambers is called a two-chamber cyst of the left ovary. Such pathology occurs in the process of hormonal disorders, due to stress and excessive physical/mental overload.

The disease is dangerous due to the high probability of torsion of the cystic pedicle, rupture of the formation with the release of its contents into the abdominal area, which entails an inflammatory process (peritonitis).

A two-chamber cyst of the left ovary often develops with mild or no symptoms. Typical complaints of patients with a two-chamber cyst include:

• weakness;
• sharp pain in the lower abdomen;
• problems with the menstrual cycle;
• inability to get pregnant.

A cyst of any type can consist of 2, 3, sometimes more chambers. Medicine still cannot give an exact explanation of the reasons for the appearance of these formations. Two-chamber cysts are found in women of any age, with different lifestyles.

Gynecologists believe that the optimal method of prevention is routine examinations, which allow for the detection of cystic neoplasms at an early stage and the use of gentle treatment without the use of surgical means.

Retention cyst of the left ovary

A true or retention cyst of the left ovary is formed as a result of the accumulation of secretory fluid in the capsule/duct of the organ. Depending on the structure, such formations are divided into follicular, endometrioid, paraovarian and corpus luteum cysts. The main distinguishing characteristic of this neoplasm is the absence of proliferation, i.e. increase due to cellular tissue proliferation.

This disease occurs in patients of any age group and is often a congenital defect of the intrauterine development period, when the walls of the ducts grow together.

The left ovarian retention cyst has no pronounced symptoms. Complaints are limited to pain of varying intensity and delayed menstruation. Complications such as hemorrhage and torsion of the pedicle are accompanied by severe pain.

Retention type formations are capable of resolving over the period of two menstruations. Patients are observed for up to three months, and if the cysts develop further, conservative therapy or surgical intervention may be recommended.

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Dermoid cyst of the left ovary

A benign formation is considered to be a dermoid or dermoid cyst of the left ovary. In clinical practice, such cysts occur in 20% of general cases of cysts.

Such neoplasms are round, oval in shape with a smooth outer surface, and inside they contain various tissues (muscle, nerve, fat, connective, cartilaginous structures). Dermoid includes hair, sweat and sebaceous glands. The internal cavity of this cyst is filled with a jelly-like medium.

A dermoid cyst affects only one of the ovaries, most often the right one. The neoplasm is characterized by slow growth, and cases of developing into malignant tumors account for no more than 3%.

The factors influencing the appearance of dermoid have not been fully determined. It is believed that such cysts develop due to embryonic disorders of tissue formation, hormonal disruptions during puberty, and during menopause. The pathological focus is detected with equal frequency in adolescence, adulthood, and childhood.

Like any benign tumor, a dermoid cyst of the left ovary does not have pronounced symptoms until it reaches a significant size (15 cm or more). The characteristic signs of a dermoid are:

• a feeling of heaviness and distension in the abdominal area;
• pain syndrome in the lower abdomen;
• visual protrusion of the abdomen due to fluid accumulation or the size of the cyst itself;
• bowel disorders due to compression of the intestine by a tumor.

Sharp pain and an increase in body temperature may indicate torsion of the cystic pedicle, which is a reason for immediate hospitalization.

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Parovarian cyst of the left ovary

Ten cases out of a hundred are caused by a paraovarian cyst of the left ovary, which is formed as a result of embryonic disorders. The pathology, developing from the appendage, affects women aged 20 to 40. The paraovarian neoplasm occupies the space between the fallopian tube and the ovary. The cyst grows due to overstretching of the walls, filling the tumor, and not through cell division.

Cystic formations of this type are considered the most unpredictable, not passing on their own or after taking medications. The increase of paraovarian cysts can occur under the influence of harmless factors - taking a hot bath, visiting a solarium or getting a natural tan.

The causes of the formation of such a formation are viral infections during pregnancy, the impact of chemical factors on the fetus, stress, poor ecology, the use of drugs, etc.

The presence of a paraovarian cyst does not affect the possibility of conception. However, pregnancy increases the risk of torsion of the pedicle and rupture of the cystic tumor.

The first signs of a growing neoplasm of the paraovarian type include aching pain in the lower abdomen, which increases with physical activity and following it. Small cysts form without any pronounced symptoms. Having reached a diameter of 15 cm, cystic tumors put pressure on neighboring organs, increasing the size of the abdomen.

When this type of neoplasm is detected, physical exercises that change the position of the body are prohibited - somersaults, turns, jumps, etc. The disease can only be cured by surgery.

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Serous cyst of the left ovary

A mobile, virtually painless neoplasm of a benign type is a serous cyst of the left ovary. The main complaints include:

• dull, aching pain in the lower abdomen, radiating to the lower back and groin area. The pain may extend to the left limb;
• In most cases, there are no changes in the monthly cycle; the disturbances concern the volume of bloody discharge, which becomes abundant or, on the contrary, scanty.

A benign serous tumor or ovarian cystadenoma is a bubble with clear fluid. This pathology occurs in 70% of clinical practice and is divided into:

• simple cystic formation with a smooth and even surface;
• papillary (papillary) neoplasm (has growths similar to warts).

Papillary cystadenomas can affect both ovaries, often consist of several chambers, and have a tendency to transform into malignant forms of tumors.

A small serous formation is most often detected during a gynecological examination, and quite unexpectedly for the patient herself. A small serous cyst of the left ovary is often mistakenly identified as a functional neoplasm, which requires continuous observation for up to six months.

Cysts of 15 cm or more are characterized by a complicated clinical course. Large cysts can compress nearby organs, which is an indication for surgical treatment. Large tumors are accompanied by stool disorders and problems with urination, and increased pain is also noted. Often the abdomen increases in size due to fluid accumulation in the peritoneum. Therapeutic tactics are based on the results of a comprehensive examination.

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Regression of the left ovarian cyst

Regression of a left ovarian cyst is a decrease in the size of the neoplasm or its complete disappearance on its own or through treatment tactics.

Functional cysts have the highest probability of resorption: follicular and corpus luteum cysts. They pass in 2-3 months on their own or under the influence of monophasic hormonal contraceptives, which accelerate the recovery process.

According to clinical practice, follicular, endometrioid, paraovarian and thecalutein neoplasms, as well as corpus luteum cysts, are most common. If benign ovarian tumors do not have acute symptoms and their size is relatively small, the doctor may choose a wait-and-see approach. In cases where the left ovarian cyst does not go away on its own, combined oral contraceptives with progesterone are used. The peculiarity of these contraceptives is the ability to suppress the gonadotropic function of the pituitary gland, which is most important for corpus luteum cysts. At the first stage of therapy, in order to achieve the effect of hormonal curettage, take 1-2 tablets for 15 days. Starting from the fifth day of the cycle - 1 tablet under the supervision of ultrasound, prolonged echography, until the regression of the left ovarian cyst.

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Complications and consequences

The nature of the cystic formation can be used to judge the consequences of the disease in the event of an unfavorable combination of circumstances.

Common consequences of a left ovarian cyst:

• torsion of the leg leads to tissue death as a result of circulatory disorders, which is fraught with an inflammatory process in the abdominal area;
• the growth of the neoplasm compresses/displaces nearby organs, the process is accompanied by pain syndrome and organ dysfunction. Infertility may develop against the background of this pathology;
• rupture of the cystic capsule threatens internal bleeding;
• the possibility of transforming into a malignant tumor.

Removal of the neoplasm also has adverse consequences in the form of:

• inability to conceive a child in the future;
• Adhesive processes in the fallopian tubes are a common complication of laparoscopy, despite the fact that the procedure is performed with minimal intervention in the woman’s reproductive system.

The presence of severe consequences is influenced by: the patient's age, general health, plans for conception, and lifestyle.

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Rupture of the left ovarian cyst

The most dangerous complication is considered to be the rupture of the cyst of the left ovary due to the development of peritonitis, which threatens the health, and in some cases, the life of the patient.

Unfortunately, no woman is immune from the appearance of a cystic formation. As for the loss of integrity with the release of the cyst contents into the peritoneum, such a pathological process does not occur with all types of cysts. For example, functional type neoplasms on the ovary appear and resolve unnoticed by the woman.

Factors leading to ovarian cyst rupture:

• an inflammatory process that leads to thinning of the follicle wall;
• hormonal disorders;
• pathologies in the blood clotting process;
• severe physical overload;
• active sex.

The following symptoms should be a cause for concern:

• piercing type continuous pain, concentrated in the lower abdomen;
• temperature that cannot be reduced with antipyretic drugs;
• poor general condition;
• strange-looking vaginal discharge;
• bleeding;
• presence of signs of intoxication (nausea, vomiting);
• pallor;
• fainting;
• problems with defecation and gas emission;
• a sharp drop in pressure.

The presence of the slightest signs of a cyst rupture is a reason to call an ambulance. In a hospital setting, after confirming the diagnosis, drug treatment is prescribed (in simple situations) or laparoscopic intervention to remove the damaged follicle.

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Torsion of the left ovarian cyst

Another complication is considered to be torsion of the cyst of the left ovary, which is divided into:

• full – rotation from 360° to 720°;
• partial – deviation from the original position is up to 180°.

As a result of incomplete torsion, the veins that carry blood to the ovary are compressed, but the uterine and ovarian arteries continue to function. In this case, the neoplasm grows in size, fibrin appears on the surface of the tumor, provoking an adhesion process. The cyst of the left ovary loses mobility. Complete torsion is characterized by the absence of blood flow through the arteries and veins, which causes ischemia and necrotic manifestations.

The phenomenon of overtruction is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• acute pain syndrome in the lower abdomen;
• the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall are overstrained;
• the Shchetkin-Blumberg symptom will be positive;
• presence of signs of intoxication - nausea, vomiting;
• increased heart rate;
• cold sweat appears;
• body temperature increases;
• the skin becomes pale.

A cyst rupture requires immediate medical attention, and treatment is most often prescribed surgically.

Diagnostics left ovarian cysts

The main diagnostic method for detecting a left ovarian cyst is ultrasound scanning, which reveals a dark, round bubble. Ultrasound examination provides an idea of the structure of the cystic formation. In order to determine the cause of the pathology and track the dynamics of the cyst change, a number of ultrasound examinations may be recommended.

Dopplerography is an ultrasound analysis method for assessing blood flow in the vascular bed. For example, there is no blood flow in a luteal cyst, but it is detected in other ovarian tumors.

Since functional cysts are capable of self-resorption, and dermoid and cancerous neoplasms are not characterized by cases of self-healing, then when a cyst is detected, a wait-and-see treatment tactic is often chosen. Dermoid and cancerous tumors can change their size or remain unchanged, and endometriosis processes cause a significant increase in cystic formations during menstruation and their reduction after the end of menstruation. All these factors help specialists establish the correct diagnosis during the examination.

If the gynecologist suspects that the cyst is not functional, then additional diagnostics of the left ovarian cyst is prescribed:

• laparoscopic method – refers to the category of diagnostic surgery, in which the doctor uses a camera and a special instrument to conduct an examination and also takes material for analysis;
• blood test for quantitative content of the marker CA-125 - used when cancer is suspected. It should be understood that a high level of the tumor marker does not always indicate the presence of a cancerous tumor of the ovary, since an increase in CA-125 occurs as a result of other pathological processes;
• blood test for sex hormone levels – indicates hormonal changes that led to the formation of a cyst;
• blood for biochemistry – to determine cholesterol and glucose levels.

A general blood test is done to identify an endometrioid cyst. In patients with such a pathology, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate increases significantly, which is often confused with an inflammatory process. Modern methods - CT, MRI with high accuracy allow us to evaluate the internal structure of the cystic formation.

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Echo signs of a left ovarian cyst

Ultrasound examination of the ovary is a safe, reliable diagnostic method that determines the structure of the organ. Ultrasound scanning is performed using an abdominal sensor through the peritoneal wall or transvaginally. Transvaginal examination is considered more informative, since the sensor is inserted into the vagina and comes as close as possible to the organ being examined.

The left ovary is normally located at the left uterine rib, contains up to 12 follicles, is characterized by average echogenicity compared to the color shade of the uterus, and consists of a moderate number of blood vessels. The follicle size is within the normal range – 1-30 mm. A size over 30 mm indicates a functional cyst.

The left ovarian cyst on the monitor is a round bubble of varying color and structure. As a result of ultrasound scanning, the type of cystic formation is determined.

It is recommended to perform an ultrasound on the fifth or sixth day of the menstrual cycle, since the ovaries change their structure and appearance during one cycle. To clarify the diagnosis, it is necessary to undergo several ultrasounds.

The following echo signs of a left ovarian cyst are distinguished:

• serous type cysts of smooth-walled structure - on the scanogram they are represented by anechoic fluid formations, often with partitions approximately 1 mm thick. Calcification of the capsule is manifested by an increase in echogenicity and local thickening of the wall;
• Papillary cystadenomas resemble cauliflower florets with viscous and cloudy contents. On the monitor, such neoplasms have a round or oval shape, a dense capsule with multiple parietal seals (papillae), characterized by increased echogenicity;
• mucinous cyst - the wall thickness is 1-2 mm, most often have partitions resembling a honeycomb. A distinctive feature of this neoplasm is the presence of a medium or highly echogenic fine suspension inside the capsule, which is typical for cysts larger than 6 cm. Small formations are homogeneous and anechoic.

To correctly differentiate a cyst, a specialist needs to have extensive experience, since some pathological formations have a similar internal structure. Here it is important to consider the location of the neoplasm relative to the uterus, its appearance, size, presence of partitions and suspension.

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Treatment left ovarian cysts

Diagnosis of a left ovarian cyst is not a reason for despair. To clarify the type of neoplasm, you should undergo additional examination, discuss with your doctor the options for optimal therapeutic effects and possible side effects. The patient should constantly monitor the slightest changes in her condition, and if alarming symptoms occur, immediately call an ambulance.

Some types of cysts, such as functional or corpus luteum, are capable of spontaneous resorption. Such patients are monitored for tumor dynamics using ultrasound and Doppler sonography for up to 3 months.

Conservative treatment methods have proven successful:

• hormonal therapy;
• balneological procedures – irrigation of the vagina with medicinal solutions, taking baths;
• peloidotherapy (mud therapy);
• phoresis with SMT currents, which ensures maximum absorption of drugs through the skin;
• electrophoresis – penetration of therapeutic liquid media through the skin due to low-frequency current;
• ultraphonophoresis – physiological effect is achieved through ultrasound irradiation;
• magnetic therapy.

Treatment of a left ovarian cyst is prescribed based on the patient’s age, individual characteristics of her body, the reasons for the formation of the cystic formation, and the size and rate of tumor growth.

In the treatment of functional and endometrioid cysts, oral hormonal contraceptives are used, blocking the functioning of the ovary, inhibiting the growth of an existing cystic formation, and also preventing the appearance of new tumors.

In the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome, in addition to taking hormonal drugs, special attention is paid to normalizing body weight and carbohydrate metabolism.

Women in menopause with cysts up to five cm and a normal CA-125 level are not prescribed treatment, but are recommended to undergo a repeat ultrasound to monitor the growth of the formation.

Surgeries are indicated for patients with cysts larger than 10 cm and in cases where other treatment methods have failed. Laparoscopy is widely used to remove the neoplasm (several openings are made in the abdominal area), and laparotomy is used less frequently – excision of the cysts by an incision in the abdominal wall.

Surgical intervention is inevitable when the disease worsens, bleeding occurs, the cystic pedicle is twisted, or the ovary dies.

Surgery for left ovarian cyst

Surgical intervention in the diagnosis of a left ovarian cyst is used not only to remove the neoplasm, but also to determine the reasons for its formation, establish the type of cyst and exclude cancer.

When choosing a surgical treatment method, the fundamental factors will be:

• general condition of the patient;
• possible complications;
• type and size of the cystic formation;
• instrumental equipment of the clinic.

Surgery for a left ovarian cyst is possible using laparotomy (an incision is made) or laparoscopy (through a puncture). The fundamental factors in choosing the treatment tactics will be the patient's age and condition, as well as the characteristics of the tumor.

Laparoscopic excision is considered less traumatic, entails a minimum of complications, and has a shorter rehabilitation period. Surgical intervention is performed under general anesthesia. Several punctures-incisions are made in the abdominal wall, through which endoscopic instruments are inserted. Culdoscopy is a special case of laparoscopy, when the endoscope is inserted through the vagina.

A surgical option for the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome is electrocoagulation. The essence of the technique is to cauterize areas of the ovary (pointwise) with cells that produce male hormones, in particular testosterone. The operation is characterized by its speed, minimal recovery period, and reduced level of trauma.

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Treatment of left ovarian cyst with tablets

Drug treatment is primarily selected based on the type of cystic formation. Conservative therapy for left ovarian cysts of the follicular type consists of estrogen- and gestagen-based drugs. The duration of drug administration varies from one to two months.

Treatment of left ovarian cysts of the endometrioid type with tablets includes:

• hormone therapy;
• taking vitamins;
• immunomodulatory program;
• anti-inflammatory and analgesic regimen.

In the treatment of endometriosis with hormones, the following groups of drugs are prescribed:

• synthetic estrogens/gestagens – “diane-35”, “marvelon”, “femodene”, “ovidon”, etc.;
• progestogen-containing agents - "Duphaston", "Gestrinone", "medroxyprogesterone", etc.;
• antiestrogenic drugs - "tamoxifen";
• androgen-containing medications – “sustanon-250”, “testenate”, etc.;
• antigonadotropin substances - "danazol", "danoval" (reduce the activity of the pituitary gland);
• anabolics – “methylandrostenediol”, “nerobol”, etc.

Hormones are prescribed only by the attending physician, the duration of treatment is up to nine months.

Patients are recommended to take vitamins C and E as a general strengthening therapy and to activate ovarian function.

Anti-inflammatory drugs (tablets or suppositories) are used strictly on doctor's orders. As for pain relief, "analgin" and "baralgin" are most often used.

To correct immunity, the following is prescribed:

• a course of "levamisole" ("Decaris") - three days with a single dose of 18 mg;
• intramuscular injections of "Spelenin" - up to 20 injections of 2 ml every other day or every day;
• “cycloferon”, “thymogen”, “pentaglobin”.

Drug treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome necessarily includes:

• a course of metformin for up to six months – to normalize carbohydrate metabolism caused by a decrease in tissue sensitivity to insulin;
• taking hormones to combat infertility - taking "clomiphene citrate" is carried out from the fifth to tenth day from the onset of menstruation, normalizes the ability of the egg to leave the ovary in 50% of cases. If the desired effect is not observed, the drug is replaced with "pergonal" / "humegon" with the active substance gonadotropin;
• Hormonal therapy if pregnancy is not planned – “Diane-35”, “Yarina”, “Jess”, “Veroshpiron”, which have antiandrogenic properties.

A small cyst of the left ovary can be treated with contraceptives, homeopathic remedies (for example, "Lachesis 6" 5 granules twice a day). If drug therapy does not give results or complications arise, surgical intervention is prescribed.

Prevention

The use of monophasic combined contraceptives is the best prevention of left ovarian cysts. Medical practice has proven a six-fold reduction in the risk of ovarian tumors per year when taking combined contraceptives. The protective effect lasts up to 15 years.

For girls in puberty, "Jess" is prescribed for prophylactic purposes for up to six months, if there is no need to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Women of reproductive age require long-term use of hormone-containing drugs with a minimum estrogen content. The most convenient is the ring "NuvaRing", which releases ethinyl estradiol (15 mcg) and etonogestrel (120 mcg) into the body. Vaginal insertion of the contraceptive ensures a stable concentration of hormones in the blood, control of the menstrual cycle and the exclusion of a decrease in the contraceptive effect when interacting with food or other pharmacological drugs, as with oral administration.

If estrogens are contraindicated, then progestogen therapy is used. Initially, it is recommended to take "norcolut" twice a day at 5 mg, the second stage includes "charozetta".

Prevention of left ovarian cysts also includes:

• maintaining a stable emotional state, developing a positive attitude towards life;
• use of homeopathy/herbal remedies to normalize hormonal levels;
• following a low-calorie diet, consuming more plant fiber, vitamin A and selenium;
• performing physical exercises that activate blood circulation in the pelvic organs;
• moderation when sunbathing and visiting solariums;
• implementation of the daily routine;
• do not overuse hot water baths;
• regular visits to the gynecologist.

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Forecast

Benign ovarian tumors are characterized by slow growth, do not cause metastases, and are capable of pushing apart or compressing nearby organs and tissues.

The prognosis for a left ovarian cyst is based on the type of neoplasm, the treatment used, the individual characteristics of the patient's body and her age.

After enucleation of serous ovarian cystadenoma, the prognosis is generally favorable for the woman's body and future pregnancy. Conception is recommended no earlier than full recovery, which corresponds to two months after surgery.

Conclusions about the need to continue treatment of serous-papillary cystadenoma after surgical removal depend on the histological picture. It is advisable to plan pregnancy two months after the surgical intervention.

In most cases, the prognosis for mucinous and dermoid cysts of the left ovary is favorable for health and pregnancy, the onset of which should be postponed for two months after enucleation/removal of the neoplasm.

Recurrence of endometrioid formations depends on the quality of the operation performed and the chosen treatment.

A functional cyst of the left ovary can be detected repeatedly throughout the patient's life until menopause.