WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for March, 2003: Cystic Teratoma-- Newly diagnosed patient. Help!

Cystic Teratoma-- Newly diagnosed patient. Help!

From: Anonymous (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Sat, 8 Mar 2003 11:53:00 -0800

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Hi,

I am 27 years old (never married). I just recently took an ultrasound and was told that I have a 5 cm dermoid on my right ovary and a smaller one on my left ovary. I am terrified, hungry for information and very concerned about the possibility of not being able to have children one day and having menopause at a young age (after removal via operation). I have a number of questions and would appreciate any feedback/suggestions for any one (including MD's).

First- I have heard theories concerning being a twin and later having teratomas...I am a twin and am very interested in hearing from anyone regarding the legitimacy of this theory.

Second- It is my understanding that having a very good surgeon is key to sparing as much ovary as possible during surgery. I also understand that there are 2 methods of surgery-- one by scope and the other by regular incision. I understand that scarring can pose problems with fertility too-- and I tend to keloid very bad (have had another unrelated surgery with bad scarring experience).I have mediterranean skin type that tends to scar poorly. As a result, I would be interested in learning who the best and most experienced (and detail oriented) surgeons are in the U.S. for ovarian dermoids. Names would be much appreciated as would methods of finding this information.

Third- I am very concerned about recurrence of dermoids. I was told that my 5 cm dermoids has spread all over my right ovarian tissue-- does this mean that I will have to remove my entire right ovary? Also, since I will have to remove the smaller one on my left ovary, I am particularly concerned that if there are future recurrences, I won't have any ovary left. Does anyone know anything about recurrence?

Fourth- if I have my ovaries removed or at least one entire ovary and parts of the other removed-- will I get menopause at age 27? If so, do I have to take hormone pills or somehow induce periods?

Please help! Thanks!

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