What is considered rapid growth of an ovarian mature (mature) teratoma (dermoid cyst)?

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From the Guidelines

Rapid growth of an ovarian mature teratoma (dermoid cyst) is generally considered to be an increase in size, however the provided evidence does not specify the exact rate of growth that is considered rapid. Given the information available from the studies 1, it appears that the management and surveillance of dermoid cysts depend on their size and the patient's age group. For premenopausal patients, dermoid cysts less than 10 cm are typically managed with optional initial follow-up at 8–12 weeks and annual US surveillance if not surgically removed 1. In postmenopausal patients, those with a confident diagnosis of a dermoid cyst may be considered for annual US follow-up when not surgically excised, but the risk of malignancy and malignant transformation should be taken into account 1. Key factors to consider in the management of dermoid cysts include changes in morphology, development of a vascular component, and symptoms such as pelvic pain, bloating, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. If any of these factors are present, referral to a US specialist or performance of an MRI study is recommended for further characterization and management 1. It's crucial to prioritize the patient's symptoms, age, and the cyst's characteristics when deciding on the management approach, focusing on minimizing morbidity, mortality, and optimizing quality of life. The provided evidence does not specify a particular growth rate as indicative of rapid growth but emphasizes the importance of surveillance and prompt medical attention if complications or malignant transformation are suspected 1.

From the Research

Definition of Rapid Growth

There is no specific definition of rapid growth for an ovarian mature teratoma (dermoid cyst) provided in the studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Size of Dermoid Cysts

The studies provide information on the size of dermoid cysts, which can range from 2-27 cm in diameter 5. However, there is no specific information on what is considered rapid growth.

Factors Affecting Growth

Some studies suggest that factors such as torsion, rupture, and recurrence can affect the management and treatment of dermoid cysts 3, 4, 5. However, these factors do not provide a clear definition of rapid growth.

Laparoscopic Management

Laparoscopic management of ovarian dermoid cysts is a safe and efficient procedure, offering a shorter hospital stay and quick recovery 2, 4, 5, 6. However, this information does not provide a definition of rapid growth.

Key Points

  • Dermoid cysts can range in size from 2-27 cm in diameter 5
  • Laparoscopic management is a safe and efficient procedure for treating dermoid cysts 2, 4, 5, 6
  • Factors such as torsion, rupture, and recurrence can affect the management and treatment of dermoid cysts 3, 4, 5
  • There is no specific definition of rapid growth for an ovarian mature teratoma (dermoid cyst) provided in the studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Laparoscopic treatment of ovarian dermoid cysts: eleven years' experience.

The Journal of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, 2004

Research

Dermoid cysts in adolescents.

Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology, 2015

Research

Laparoscopic approach to ovarian dermoid cysts.

Chirurgia (Bucharest, Romania : 1990), 2012

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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