Is an adnexal cyst the same as an ovarian cyst?

Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 08, 2024
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Adnexa clinically refers to the fallopian tubes and ovaries combined, thus, adnexal cysts are not necessarily ovarian cysts. During gynecological ultrasound, these are often reported as cysts in the adnexal area because the proximity of the ovaries and fallopian tubes makes it difficult to conclusively determine if an adnexal cyst is an ovarian cyst. Clinically, cysts in the fallopian tubes are also referred to as cysts in the adnexal area. Distinguishing them often requires surgery to see the exact location of the cyst for identification.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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malignant symptoms of ovarian cysts

Malignant ovarian cysts, commonly known as ovarian cancer, often present with no symptoms in most people. Patients generally do not exhibit any specific symptoms. In advanced stages, however, symptoms such as ascites and abdominal swelling or pain may occur due to the cyst pressing on other organs in the abdomen. Initially, these symptoms might be mistaken for gastrointestinal issues, hence the importance of undergoing a gynecological ultrasound examination. In early stages, ovarian tumors may not show any symptoms, so it is recommended that women undergo tumor marker tests, such as CA125 and HE4, as well as routine ultrasound examinations.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should I do if an ovarian cyst ruptures?

Ovarian cyst rupture refers to the expulsion of the fluid inside an ovarian cyst out of the cyst due to external forces. When an ovarian cyst ruptures, the patient can suddenly experience severe pain in the lower abdomen on one side, which is often unbearable. At the same time, symptoms such as nausea and vomiting may accompany the pain. If the fluid inside the cyst is irritating, for example, the fluid in an endometriosis cyst which resembles chocolate, this fluid can promote widespread abdominal pain. This irritation can lead to peritonitis. Generally, an ovarian cyst rupture requires immediate surgical intervention for treatment.

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Written by Xia Hu
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Do ovarian cysts require the removal of the ovary?

Generally, ovarian cysts do not require the removal of the ovary; the common practice is to perform a cystectomy, which involves peeling off the cyst from the ovary. After that, the situation of bleeding is assessed. If there is no significant bleeding on the surgical surface, suturing can be done, which preserves both the morphology and function of the ovary. Ovaries are crucial for females as they produce estrogen, progesterone, and also have the function of ovulation. Therefore, removing ovaries would reduce the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body and decrease ovulation functions, which is why ovary removal is generally not recommended. Typically, the impact of the cystectomy on these ovarian functions is minimal. Thus, recovery tends to be good, with minimal impact on daily life in terms of prognosis.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is an adnexal cyst an ovarian cyst?

In clinical terms, the adnexa include the fallopian tubes and ovaries, so an adnexal cyst is not solely an ovarian cyst; rather, ovarian cysts are just one type of adnexal cyst. Adnexal cysts can also include fallopian tube cysts, but in clinical practice, most adnexal cysts are manifestations of ovarian cysts. Therefore, when patients hear the term "adnexal cyst," they should further inquire whether it is an ovarian cyst, instead of simply assuming it to be one.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to check for ovarian cysts?

Firstly, in gynecological outpatient clinics, an ovarian cyst requires examination through a gynecological color ultrasound, which can clearly determine the presence of an ovarian cyst, or evaluate the size and echo of the ovarian cyst to assess the severity of the condition. Additionally, a gynecological examination can also be performed to confirm the presence of an ovarian cyst. The main purpose is to assess the severity of the ovarian cyst disease through palpation.