From the Guidelines
Corpus luteum cysts are located in the ovaries of women. These cysts form from the corpus luteum, which is a temporary endocrine structure that develops in the ovary after ovulation 1. When an egg is released from a follicle during ovulation, the remaining follicular cells transform into the corpus luteum. Normally, the corpus luteum produces progesterone and estrogen to support early pregnancy, and if pregnancy doesn't occur, it degenerates within about 14 days. However, sometimes the corpus luteum fills with fluid and forms a cyst. These cysts typically develop on the ovary from which ovulation occurred during that particular menstrual cycle.
Key Characteristics of Corpus Luteum Cysts
- They are usually benign and often resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles without requiring treatment 1.
- They may cause mild pelvic pain or discomfort on one side of the lower abdomen, but many women experience no symptoms at all.
- In rare cases where a corpus luteum cyst grows large, ruptures, or causes significant pain, medical attention may be necessary.
Diagnosis and Management
- Corpus luteum cysts can be diagnosed using transvaginal ultrasound, which can help distinguish them from other types of ovarian cysts 1.
- The O-RADS US risk stratification and management system can be used to categorize and manage corpus luteum cysts, as well as other types of adnexal masses.
- The system uses a combination of ultrasound descriptors and clinical factors to assess the risk of malignancy and guide management decisions. Some key points to consider when evaluating corpus luteum cysts include:
- The size and appearance of the cyst on ultrasound
- The presence or absence of symptoms such as pelvic pain or discomfort
- The patient's medical history and risk factors for ovarian cancer
- The results of any previous ultrasound or other imaging studies.
From the Research
Location of Corpus Luteum Cysts
- Corpus luteum cysts are located in the ovaries, as they are a result of the cystic evolution of the corpus luteum 2.
- These cysts can be found in the annexa, which is the area surrounding the ovaries, and are distinguished from other types of ovarian cysts such as follicular cysts and endometriomas 3, 2.
- In some cases, corpus luteum cysts can be located in undescended ovaries, which are ovaries that have not moved into their normal position in the pelvic cavity 4.
- Corpus luteum cysts can cause bleeding and other complications, and their location in the ovaries or surrounding areas can make them difficult to diagnose and treat 2, 5.
- Imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) can be used to visualize corpus luteum cysts and determine their location and characteristics 6.