What is Dermoid Cyst? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Dermoid cyst is a type of cyst that is congenital and usually seen in the ovary or various parts of the body. These cysts can contain different tissues of the body such as skin, hair, teeth, bones and even fat tissue. Ovarian dermoid cyst is one of the most common types in women. Dermoid cysts are usually benign, often asymptomatic and are noticed during routine check-ups. However, when they grow or cause complications, surgical intervention may be required.


 

What is a Dermoid Cyst?

Dermoid cyst is a type of cyst filled with different tissues that is present at birth and can develop in various parts of the body. These cysts can contain different tissues such as hair, teeth, fat tissue, and skin cells. Dermoid cysts seen in the ovaries are called ovarian dermoid cyst and are usually seen in young women. Dermoid cysts usually grow slowly and may not show symptoms for a long time. However, when they grow, they can cause abdominal pain, bloating or other complications.

General Features of Dermoid Cysts:

• They are Congenital Cysts: Dermoid cysts are structures that develop at birth and are formed during development in the womb.
• They are Benign: Most dermoid cysts are benign and have a very low risk of turning into cancer.
• They Grow Slowly: Since dermoid cysts grow slowly, they can remain asymptomatic for a long time.

The content and structure of dermoid cysts are unique; this distinguishes them from other cysts.

Why Does a Dermoid Cyst Form?

The formation of dermoid cysts is related to the placement of cells that will form various tissues of the body in the wrong places during embryonic development. This causes cysts that have been present since birth to grow over time.

Formation Mechanism of Dermoid Cysts:

• Embryonic Development: Cellular errors that occur during pregnancy and the embryonic period cause the formation of dermoid cysts.
• Multiple Tissue Content: Dermoid cysts can contain many types of tissue, such as skin, hair, fat, and teeth.

The development of these cysts can also be associated with genetic predisposition, but in most cases they occur without a specific risk factor.

What are the symptoms of a dermoid cyst?

Most dermoid cysts do not cause symptoms and are detected during routine gynecological check-ups. However, as cysts grow or complications develop, some symptoms may appear.

Common Symptoms of Dermoid Cysts:

• Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Especially in large cysts, pain, bloating and a feeling of pressure may occur in the abdominal area.
• Menstrual Irregularities: Ovarian dermoid cysts can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle.
• Urinary and Bowel Problems: Depending on the size of the cyst, it can put pressure on the bladder and bowels, which can lead to problems such as frequent urination or constipation.
• Mass Feeling: Some patients notice a hard mass in their abdomen can.

If the cyst grows suddenly or complications such as torsion occur, symptoms may suddenly become severe and emergency intervention may be required.

Types of Dermoid Cysts

Dermoid cysts can be seen in different parts of the body and are given different names depending on where they are located. Ovarian dermoid cysts are the most common type, but dermoid cysts can also occur in other parts of the body.

Main Types of Dermoid Cysts:

• Ovarian Dermoid Cyst (Ovarian Dermoid Cyst): It develops in the ovaries and is most often seen in young women.
• Subcutaneous Dermoid Cysts: It usually occurs under the skin in areas such as the face, neck and back.
• Spinal Dermoid Cysts: They are dermoid cysts found in the spinal cord and can create pressure on the nervous system.

Symptoms and treatment methods of dermoid cysts vary depending on where they are located may show.

Dermoid Cyst Complications

Dermoid cysts are usually benign and harmless, but some complications may occur. Especially large cysts or conditions such as torsion (cyst rotation) require urgent intervention.

Possible Complications:

• Cyst Torsion: If the cyst rotates around itself, it can cut off blood flow, causing severe pain and tissue damage. This requires immediate surgery.
• Infection: Rarely, a dermoid cyst can become infected and cause symptoms such as fever and severe pain.
• Cyst Rupture: If the cyst ruptures, the fluid inside can spread into the abdominal cavity and serious conditions such as inflammation (peritonitis) can develop.

Although such complications are rare, the size and condition of dermoid cysts should be monitored regularly.

Dermoid Cyst Treatment Methods

The treatment of dermoid cysts depends on the size of the cyst, its symptoms, and the risk of complications. Small and asymptomatic cysts are usually monitored, while large or problematic cysts are surgically removed.

Dermoid Cyst Treatment Options:

1. Monitoring: Small, asymptomatic cysts can be monitored at regular intervals. The doctor monitors the growth rate of the cyst and the risks it may pose.
2. Laparoscopic Cystectomy: Removal of cysts by laparoscopic method, minimally invasive surgery. This method is performed with small incisions and provides rapid recovery.
3. Open Surgery (Laparotomy): In cases where the cyst is large or carries a risk of complications, open surgery may be required.

The treatment method is determined according to the patient's general health status and the characteristics of the cyst.

How is Dermoid Cyst Surgery Performed?

Dermoid cyst surgery is usually performed with laparoscopic (closed) surgery. This method allows the cyst to be removed by reaching the abdominal cavity through small incisions.

Laparoscopic Dermoid Cyst Surgery Stages:

1. Anesthesia: This is a procedure performed under general anesthesia.
2. Opening Small Incisions: Small 1-2 cm incisions are made in the abdomen.
3. Inserting the Camera: The laparoscope (a small camera) is inserted and surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions.
4. Removing the Cyst: The cyst is carefully removed and care is taken not to damage healthy tissues.
5. Stitches: After the surgery, the incisions are closed with stitches.

This surgery usually takes 1-2 hours and patients are usually discharged the same day or the next day.

Post-Operative Recovery Process

The recovery period after laparoscopic dermoid cyst surgery is shorter than other surgical methods. There are some important points to consider after surgery.

Recovery Period and Things to Consider:

• Rest: It is important to rest for a few days after surgery.
• Pain Management: There may be mild pain, painkillers prescribed by the doctor can be used.
• Avoid Heavy Lifting: Heavy lifting should be avoided for the first few weeks.
• Stitch Care: The surgical area should be kept clean and signs of infection should be observed.

Full recovery usually takes 2-4 weeks.

Dermoid Cyst Risk Factors

Since dermoid cysts are congenital structures, there are no obvious external risk factors. However, in some individuals, genetic predisposition may affect the formation of dermoid cysts.

Factors Contributing to the Development of Dermoid Cysts:

• Genetic Predisposition: People with a family history of dermoid cysts have a higher risk of developing these cysts.
• Embryonic Developmental Disorders: Cellular disorders that occur during development in the womb can cause cyst formation.

In most cases, dermoid cysts occur incidentally and are not associated with any specific environmental factor.

Risk of Recurrence of Dermoid Cysts

Most dermoid cysts do not recur after successful removal. However, in some cases, especially if the entire cyst is not removed, they may recur.

Risk of Recurrence and Precautions:

• Complete Removal: Complete removal of the cyst during surgery reduces the risk of recurrence.
• Regular Checkups: Regular doctor checkups should be performed after surgery and the formation of new cysts should be monitored.

Dermoid cystAlthough the risk of recurrence is low, it can reoccur in some patients.

Dermoid Cyst and Pregnancy

Ovarian dermoid cysts generally do not have a negative effect on pregnancy. However, large cysts can cause some problems during pregnancy.

Effects on Pregnancy:

• Growth of Cysts: The risk of cysts growing during pregnancy may increase and this may require surgical intervention.
• Birth Complications: Large cysts may cause problems during birth and a cesarean section may be required.

Dermoid cysts should be monitored regularly during pregnancy and followed up under the supervision of a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do dermoid cysts disappear on their own?

Dermoid cysts usually do not disappear on their own. Surgery may be required.

2. Can a dermoid cyst turn into cancer?

Most dermoid cysts are benign and the risk of turning into cancer is very low.

3. How long is the recovery period after dermoid cyst surgery?

Full recovery after laparoscopic surgery usually takes 2-4 weeks.

4. Does a dermoid cyst prevent pregnancy?

In most cases, dermoid cysts do not cause infertility. However, large cysts can affect the reproductive organs.

5. Does a dermoid cyst recur after surgery?

The risk of recurrence is low if the entire cyst is removed during surgery.

6. Do dermoid cysts cause pain?

Growing dermoid cysts can cause abdominal pain and a feeling of pressure.