A dermoid cyst is a cystic structure, usually benign, that forms when body tissues fuse in the wrong place during development. Dermoid cysts are usually found in the ovaries, ovarian sac (ovarian cyst) or sometimes in the testicles, brain, nose, neck or other body parts. These cysts develop as a result of misplacement of embryonic cells.
Dermoid cysts can be structures containing a variety of tissues, including hair, teeth, bone, fat, nerves and other tissues. These cysts are usually congenital and are usually slow-growing, benign cysts.
Dermoid cysts are usually asymptomatic and may be detected incidentally during imaging tests for another health condition. However, depending on their size or location, they can sometimes cause pain, swelling or other symptoms.
What are the Types of Dermoid Cysts?
Dermoid cysts can vary depending on the tissues they usually contain and their location. Because these cysts are the result of the misplacement of embryonic cells, the tissues they contain can vary. Some common types of dermoid cysts are as follows:
Ovarian Dermoid Cyst: This is one of the most common types of dermoid cyst and is usually found in an ovary. It can contain hair, teeth, fat and other tissues.
Testicular Dermoid Cyst: In men, dermoid cysts can be seen in the testicles. These cysts usually contain hair, teeth and fat.
Brain Dermoid Cyst: This is a rare condition and is usually congenital. When located in the brain, surgical intervention may be required.
Nasal Dermoid Cyst: Dermoid cysts in the nose are usually congenital in children and can be noticed as a lump or mass under the skin.
Neck Dermoid Cyst: Dermoid cysts in the neck are usually congenital and usually grow slowly.
Although dermoid cysts are usually benign, they may require surgical intervention in certain cases. The size of the cyst, its location and whether it causes symptoms can help determine treatment options. Treatment usually involves surgery, but each case is individual and should be evaluated in consultation with a doctor.
Why does a dermoid cyst occur?
Dermoid cysts are congenital cysts that form as a result of an abnormality that occurs during embryonic development. These cysts occur due to misplacement and differentiation of body cells. There is usually no obvious cause for the formation of dermoid cysts, but certain factors can increase the risk. Possible causes may include:
Genetic Factors: Dermoid cysts are often associated with a genetic predisposition. Individuals with a family history of dermoid cysts may be more likely to develop such cysts.
Embryonic Abnormalities: Dermoid cysts are the result of misplacement and differentiation of embryonic cells. This usually occurs in the first months of the developing fetus.
Chromosome Abnormalities: Some genetic chromosome abnormalities can increase the risk of dermoid cyst formation.
Hormonal Changes: There is no clear evidence that hormonal changes affect the formation of dermoid cysts. However, it is thought that ovarian dermoid cysts in particular may occur due to hormonal factors affecting the ovaries.
Dermoid cysts are usually asymptomatic and are often detected incidentally during imaging tests for another health condition. Although these cysts are usually benign, they can cause discomfort due to their size or symptoms. If you have any concerns about dermoid cysts or notice symptoms, it is important to talk to a health professional.
What are the symptoms of a dermoid cyst?
Dermoid cysts are usually asymptomatic and are often detected incidentally during imaging tests for another health condition. However, they can cause symptoms depending on their size or location. Symptoms of dermoid cysts may include
Pain or Discomfort: Dermoid cysts are usually painless, but in some cases there may be pain or discomfort due to the size or pressure of the cyst.
Swelling or Mass: Dermoid cysts can often be felt as a swelling or mass. This swelling can cause tissue to be felt in the area where the cyst is located.
Menstrual Irregularities: A dermoid cyst in the ovary can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle or painful periods.
Abdominal Pain: Ovarian dermoid cysts can cause pain in the lower abdomen, especially as the cyst grows or complications develop.
Nausea and Vomiting: Large dermoid cysts can lead to nausea and vomiting due to abdominal pressure.
Urinary or Bowel Problems: Dermoid cysts can put pressure on the bladder or intestines, causing changes in urination or bowel movements.
Skin Changes: Dermoid cysts can cause a prominent swelling under or on the skin. This can often be seen in neck dermoid cysts.
These symptoms can vary from person to person and are not specific to dermoid cysts. People who experience these symptoms should talk to a health professional. While dermoid cysts are usually benign, surgical intervention may be necessary if signs of growth or complications occur.
How is a dermoid cyst diagnosed?
A dermoid cyst is usually diagnosed through imaging tests and other medical evaluations. The following steps are usually followed to diagnose a dermoid cyst:
1. Physical Examination:
The doctor listens to the patient's complaints and performs a physical examination. If there is swelling, mass or tenderness, these conditions are examined to assess the possibility of a dermoid cyst.
2.Imaging Tests:
Ultrasonography (USG): Used to visualize cysts in the ovaries or other body parts. USG can assess the size, structure and contents of the cyst.
Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Can be used to see the location of the cyst in particular and the surrounding tissues in more detail.
3.Blood Tests:
Dermoid cysts usually do not have specific markers (tumor markers). However, blood tests can sometimes provide information about the size and interaction of the cyst.
4.Laparoscopy:
A surgical procedure called laparoscopy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis or to surgically remove the cyst. Laparoscopy allows a camera inserted into a thin tube to look inside the abdomen.
The diagnostic process can vary depending on the person's symptoms, the location and size of the cyst. Although dermoid cysts are usually benign, it is important to see a health professional for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
How is a dermoid cyst treated?
Since dermoid cysts are usually benign and do not cause any specific symptoms, small and asymptomatic cysts are usually monitored and do not require treatment. However, in certain cases or if the cyst is causing symptoms, treatment options may be considered. Dermoid cyst treatment can be as follows:
Observation and follow-up: Small, symptomless and stable cysts are usually only observed. In this case, the growth of the cyst is monitored using regular follow-ups and imaging tests.
Medication: For dermoid cysts with symptoms such as pain or inflammation, doctors may recommend painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs. However, such medications do not shrink the cyst, they may only help manage the symptoms.
Surgical Intervention: Dermoid cysts usually do not require surgical intervention, but in certain cases, surgical options may be considered if the cyst is large, causing complications, or at risk of becoming malignant. Surgery may involve removal of the cyst and can be performed using laparoscopy or open surgery.
Untreated Dermoid Cysts: There are cases where dermoid cysts, which are usually small and asymptomatic, disappear spontaneously without the need for treatment. In this case, the condition of the cyst is monitored with regular follow-up and imaging tests recommended by the doctor.
Each case is different, so the treatment plan should be individualized. The treatment of dermoid cysts is determined by the size of the cyst, its location, symptoms and the general health of the patient. Therefore, it is important for people with suspected dermoid cysts or symptoms to talk to a health professional and create a treatment plan that is appropriate for their specific condition.