Treatment

• The only treatment available for ovarian dermoids is surgical removal. If under 2.5 inches, the dermoid can be removed by laparoscopy. If the dermoid is greater than 2.5 inches, then there are a few options. An ovarian cystectomy is the removal of the cyst. The removal of the cyst and part of the ovary is called a partial oophorectomy. If there are size considerations or complications with the cyst, such as twisting, bleeding or rupturing, the salpingo-oophorectomy procedure may be necessary. This is the removal of the cyst, ovary and fallopian tube. If the cyst is cancerous, it may be necessary to perform a full hysterectomy with a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. In this case, the uterus is removed as well as the cyst(s), ovaries and fallopian tubes.
  
  

Origination and Symptoms

• This type of cyst can develop at birth and not be diagnosed until adulthood. The composition of the cyst is primarily skin but can also be similar tissue such as hair, teeth and bone. This type of cyst originates from the germ cell of the ovary. These are the cells that produce the egg as well as the beginning of every type of human tissue. Acute symptoms may occur such as abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, cold, clammy skin and rapid breathing. This may be a sign of an infection due to the twisting or rupturing of the cyst. Seek immediate medical attention.