Ovarian cyst rupture

Question 1

What are ovarian cysts

Answer 1

Fluid-filled sac developing within or on the surface of ovary

Question 2

What are the main two types of ovarian cysts?

Answer 2

Follicular cysts

Corpus luteal cyst

Question 3

What is the most common type of ovarian cyst?

Answer 3

Follicular cyst

Question 4

What is the aetiology of follicular cyst?

Answer 4

Due to non-rupture of the dominant follicle/failure of atresia in a non-dominant follicle.

Tends to regress after several menstrual cycles

Question 5

Corpus luteal cysts commonly occur in which demographics?

Answer 5

Pregnant women (Especially in early pregnancy)

Question 6

What is the aetiology of a corpus luteal cyst?

Answer 6

Occurs due to failure of corpus luteum to breakdown in absence of fertilisation

Begins to fill with blood resulting in a corpus luteal cyst

Question 7

Which type of ovarian cyst can present with intraperitoneal bleeds?

Answer 7

Corpus luteum cyst

Question 8

What are the main risk factors for ovarian cyst rupture?

Answer 8

Hormonal imbalances,

Endometriosis

Pregnancy

Pelvic infections

Question 9

What are the main signs/symptoms of ovarian cyst rupture?

Answer 9

Sudden-onset severe unilateral sharp pelvic pain

Nausea and vomitting

Bloating and early satiety (<12 months, suggestive of pre-existing cyst)

Dysuria and increased urinary frequency (if local inflammation/compression)

Peritoneal signs:

Rebound tenderness

Guarding

Rigidity

Haemodynamic instability

Syncope

Diaphoresis

Tacchycardia

Hypotension

Question 10

What signs on examination may be seen in patients with ovarian cyst rupture?

Answer 10

Tender, palpable adnexal mass

Peritoneal signs (if ruptured)

• Rebound tenderness
• Guarding
• Rigidity