Ovarian cyst is not always cancer, doctor explains symptoms to watch for
A surgical oncologist explains which ovarian cyst features and symptoms call for closer medical check-up
Hearing the word cyst in the ovary makes most women think first of cancer. But doctors say having a cyst in the ovary does not mean it is cancerous. Most cysts found before menopause, in particular, are not cancerous. Even so, it is important to understand in which situations such cysts need closer examination and which symptoms should not be ignored at all.
According to Dr Sneeta Sinukumar, senior consultant surgical oncologist and HIPEC expert, doctors first look at whether a cyst has stayed the same on repeated ultrasounds or is growing in size. How the cyst appears on ultrasound also matters a great deal. There is a difference between a simple, fluid-filled cyst and one that has a solid component, irregular walls, or shows blood flow inside. If a cyst has finger-like projections (papillary projections) or multiple compartments, this too is taken as a sign that further tests are needed.
The doctor said paying attention to symptoms is equally important. Bloating or swelling in the abdomen, pelvic pain, feeling full quickly after eating only a little, or changes in urination or bowel habits, any such new and persistent problem should definitely be reported to a doctor. Unexplained weight loss, fatigue or loss of appetite should also be watched for.
When assessing an ovarian cyst, a woman's age and whether she is before or after menopause is considered just as important. A cyst found on abdominal ultrasound after menopause, especially if it is complex or growing in size, requires further investigation with a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis and tumour markers such as CA-125.
The doctor also said family history plays an important role. Women with a strong family history of ovarian, breast or related cancers, or those found to carry a BRCA or Lynch syndrome mutation, should undergo proper medical screening.
According to the doctor, the most important point is that the size of a cyst alone cannot determine whether it is cancerous. How the cyst appears on ultrasound, how it changes over time, the woman's age and menopausal status, and in some cases blood tests such as CA-125, are all considered together before reaching a conclusion. So there is no need to panic immediately on finding an ovarian cyst. But it is important to pay attention to how the cyst looks, whether it is changing over time, and whether there is any persistent symptom, and to consult a doctor when needed.
