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Dermoid cyst, also called dermoid teratoma, is a type of cyst that can be formed during fetal development and is formed by cell debris and embryonic attachments, having a yellowish color and may also have hair, teeth, keratin, sebum and, more rarely, teeth and cartilage.
This type of cyst can appear more frequently in the brain, sinuses, spine or ovaries and usually does not lead to the appearance of signs or symptoms, being discovered during imaging tests. However, if symptoms are noticed, it is important that the person goes to the doctor to confirm the presence of the cyst and start treatment, which normally corresponds to removal through surgery.
How to identify the dermoid cyst
In most cases, the dermoid cyst is asymptomatic, being discovered only during imaging exams, such as radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance or ultrasound.
However, in some cases the dermoid cyst can grow and lead to the appearance of signs and symptoms of inflammation in the location where it is located. In such cases, it is important that the person goes to the general practitioner to conclude the diagnosis and remove it as soon as possible, avoiding its rupture.
Dermoid cyst in the ovary
Dermoid cyst can be present from birth, however most of the time it is only diagnosed in women of reproductive age, since its growth is very slow and is not usually related to any sign or symptom.
Dermoid cyst in the ovary in most cases is benign and is not related to complications, such as torsion, infection, rupture or cancer, however it is important that it is evaluated by the gynecologist in order to verify the need for removal.
Although they are usually asymptomatic, in some cases the dermoid cyst in the ovary can cause pain or swelling in the abdomen, abnormal uterine bleeding or rupture, which although rare, can occur even during pregnancy. In such cases it is considered a gynecological emergency and must be treated immediately.
Is it possible to get pregnant with a dermoid cyst in the ovary?
If a woman has a dermoid cyst in her ovary, she may become pregnant, because this type of cyst does not prevent pregnancy, unless it is very large and has occupied the entire ovary space.
Due to hormonal changes in pregnancy, the dermoid cyst can grow quickly as long as it has estrogen and progesterone receptors.
How the treatment is done
Dermoid cyst is usually considered a benign change, however it is important that it is removed to avoid a health consequence, as it can grow over time. Its removal is done through surgery, however the surgery technique can vary according to its location, being the surgery more complicated when the dermoid cyst is located in the skull or in the medulla.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team
Bibliography>
- FILHO, José R. L. et al. Dermoid cyst: a case report. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Traumatology Magazine. Vol 3. 1 ed; 2003
- CARVALHO, Erlon A. et al. Dermoid Cyst Simulating Retro-Rectal Neoplasia. Rev bras Coloproct. 2007