What is the Dermoid Cyst of the Ovary with Malignant Changes?
In the Dermoid Cyst of the Ovary, a dermoid cyst arises from the germ cells (ova, eggs) of the ovary and may also be composed of teeth, hair, and fat cells. Females between the ages of 20-40 are more likely to develop dermoid cysts. Most dermoid cysts are benign (non-cancerous), although they can be malignant (cancerous) in rare cases. Less than 2% of mature dermoid cysts exhibit this malignant transformation, which is extremely uncommon.
Disease Causes
The majority of dermoid cysts in the ovary are congenital (by birth) and form during the earliest stages of the fetus’ development inside the mother’s womb.
Signs and Symptoms
Ovarian benign dermoid cysts do not cause any symptoms. Advanced dermoid cysts with cancerous alterations may exhibit the symptoms listed below. Which are
- A mass or lump in the abdomen
- Pain in the abdomen
- Vaginal bleeding before and after menopause and during periods (permanent cessation of menstruation after the age of 49 years). This severe vaginal bleeding is caused by the tumour ovary’s overproduction of estrogen hormone, which causes the thickening of the uterus’s inner endometrial wall. Endometrial wall shedding results in vaginal bleeding.
- Pain while urination
- Fecal urgency (sudden urge or need to go to the washroom to pass stool/feces)
Diagnosis
Following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make the diagnosis. These are
- Complete blood count ( CBC)
- Serum tumour markers
- Imaging techniques like ultrasonography (USG), CT-scan, MRI, and X-Ray to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Pelvic examination through per-speculum examination of the vagina, cervix, and ovaries. A speculum is a gynecological instrument used to visualize the vaginal wall, cervix, uterus, and ovaries to detect any abnormality.
- CA-125
- Serum B-HCG levels
- Alpha-fetoprotein levels (AFP)
Treatment
Surgical removal of the tumour with adjacent chemotherapy is the first-line treatment for localized ovarian tumours. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy is the treatment option for metastatic cases of malignant dermoid cysts of the ovary.
What Support can we Give for Dermoid Cyst of the Ovary with Malignant Changes?
Dermoid Cyst of the Ovary with Malignant Changes is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well-known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Dermoid Cyst of the Ovary with Malignant Changes, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
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