gynecology and obstetrics
Benign Ovarian Masses
Key Points
Ovarian cysts and benign ovarian tumors are common gynecologic issues. Functional cysts, which develop as part of the menstrual cycle, tend to be small (usually < 1.5 cm in diameter), to occur in premenopausal woman, and to resolve spontaneously. Functional cysts and benign tumors are usually asymptomatic, but sometimes they cause dull or sharp pelvic pain. Excise masses that have radiographic characteristics of cancer (eg, cystic and solid components, surface excrescences, multilocular appearance, irregular shape) or that are accompanied by ascites. Excise certain cysts and benign tumors, including cysts that do not spontaneously resolve. 