Benign ovarian masses include functional cysts and neoplasms. Neoplasms are abnormal masses of tissue that develop as a result of excessive cell division or growth. There are different types of functional ovarian cysts and benign tumors.
The cause depends on the type of formed ovarian mass but in general, functional cysts may be developed as part of the menstrual cycle while benign tumors are formed due to excessive cell division or growth.
Benign ovarian masses are usually discovered by incidence during a routine gynecologic examination or ultrasound imaging. Diagnostic tests include :
Transvaginal ultrasound (an imaging procedure in which ultrasound waves are used to produce an image of the vagina and surrounding area to detect any abnormality).
Tumor markers (a blood sample is taken to measure the level of specific substances to know if the tumor is malignant or not).
Cysts may resolve spontaneously but they should be monitored to be removed if needed. Surgery to remove the ovarian mass or the ovaries are the treatment of choice in some cases when the mass is too large or malignancy is suspected in addition to some other conditions.
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