Ovarian Dermoid Cyst:An unusual type of tumor found in the ovary, commonly containing a variety of tissues like hair, teeth, and bone. A dermoid cyst originates from a totipotential cell (a primary cell) that remains within the ovary. This cell, being totipotential, has the ability to develop into various types of cells needed to form mature tissues, often resulting in recognizable structures such as hair, bone, sebaceous (oily) material, neural tissue, and teeth.Dermoid cysts can appear at any age but are most frequently diagnosed during the childbearing years, with the average age being 30. Up to 15% of women with ovarian teratomas have them in both ovaries. The size of these cysts can vary, ranging from less than half an inch to about 17 inches (45 cm) in diameter. They can cause the ovary to twist, a condition known as torsion, which can threaten its blood supply. Larger dermoid cysts increase the risk of rupture, potentially leading to the release of greasy contents that can cause issues such as adhesions and pain. While approximately 98% of these tumors are benign, about 2% can become cancerous.The preferred treatment for a dermoid cyst is surgical removal, which can be performed through laparotomy (open surgery) or laparoscopy (using a scope). If the ovary twists due to the cyst, it constitutes a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery.Dermoid cysts of the ovary are also known simply as dermoids or ovarian teratomas.
