Ovarian Dermoid Treatment

An ovarian dermoid is a type of ovarian cyst. Ovarian cysts are sacs or pouches, filled with fluid or solid material (or both), that develop on or in the ovary. A high percentage of ovarian cyst are benign, but they're malignant in 15 percent of cases, according to The HealthScout Network. Under normal circumstance, during ovulation, a hormone is produced by the ovaries to facilitate the growth of the follicle and the eggs within. This follicle ruptures once the egg is ready, releasing the egg. When the follicle doesn't rupture or decrease in size, the result is an ovarian cyst.

Treatment

• The only treatment available for ovarian dermoids is surgical removal. If under 2.5 inches, the dermoid can be removed by laparoscopy. If the dermoid is greater than 2.5 inches, then there are a few options. An ovarian cystectomy is the removal of the cyst. The removal of the cyst and part of the ovary is called a partial oophorectomy. If there are size considerations or complications with the cyst, such as twisting, bleeding or rupturing, the salpingo-oophorectomy procedure may be necessary. This is the removal of the cyst, ovary and fallopian tube. If the cyst is cancerous, it may be necessary to perform a full hysterectomy with a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. In this case, the uterus is removed as well as the cyst(s), ovaries and fallopian tubes.

Origination and Symptoms

• This type of cyst can develop at birth and not be diagnosed until adulthood. The composition of the cyst is primarily skin but can also be similar tissue such as hair, teeth and bone. This type of cyst originates from the germ cell of the ovary. These are the cells that produce the egg as well as the beginning of every type of human tissue. Acute symptoms may occur such as abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, cold, clammy skin and rapid breathing. This may be a sign of an infection due to the twisting or rupturing of the cyst. Seek immediate medical attention.