Peritoneal inclusion cyst
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Peritoneal inclusion cysts represent a nonneoplastic reactive mesothelial proliferation. Peritoneal inclusion cysts occur almost exclusively in premenopausal women with a history of previous abdominal or pelvic surgery, trauma, pelvic inflammatory disease, or endometriosis. Peritoneal inclusion cysts range in size from several millimeters in diameter to bulky masses that may fill the pelvis and abdomen. The development of a peritoneal inclusion cyst depends on the presence of an active ovary and peritoneal adhesions.
Diagnosis
The normal peritoneum absorbs fluid easily. However, when the peritoneum is injured, there is a decrease in the clearance of ovarian fluid. Peritoneal inclusion cysts have no malignant potential despite the occasional occurrence of metaplasia. Most patients with peritoneal inclusion cysts present with pelvic pain or a pelvic mass.
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T2
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T2
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T2
Treatment
- Conservative treatment (use of oral contraceptives to suppress ovulation, pain medication) is the first line of treatment.
- Surgical resection of adhesions is necessary only in selected cases. After surgical resection, the risk of recurrence is 30-50%.