Prospective analysis of 300 cases of ovarian cysts in Iraqi women

Abstract

ackground: Most ovarian cysts (O C) are functional, benign, harmless, and may disappear on theirown within a few months. However, they may twist, rupture, bleed, or press on the surroundingorgans. It may be difficult to differentiate malignant O Cs from the benign unless histopathological examis performed. There are many methods for treatment of O Cs.Objectives: The aim of this study is to know the prevalence of O Cs, and to study their types,presentation, and treatment.Methods: Over a 5 year period, from Feb. 2000 to Jan. 2005, a prospective study of 300 women with OCs was carried out in 3 hospitals in Baghdad (Al - Habeabia hospital, Al - Elweya teaching hospital andAl - Kindy teaching hospital).Results: The highest incidence of O C (35%) was among women aged 21 - 30 years. The functional O Cwas the most common type (64.7%), and (31%) of them showed spontaneous resolution. (68.3%) of O Cswere singular.(60%) of O Cs were symptomatic, and lower abdominal pain or discomfort was the most commonsymptom (91.7%). (75%) of cases were treated surgically and cystectomy was the most common surgicalprocedure that was adopted in this study (72.9 %).(2.7%) of women had malignant O Cs. Out of them (75%) were at advanced stage (III or IV), and (87.5%)were postmenopausal.Conclusion: Most of the O Cs were benign or functional, symptomatic and some may disappear withouttreatment, but surgery was the main treatment. The highest incidence of O C was among women aged 21 -30 years. Most malignant O Cs were at advanced stage (III or IV).