Dermoid Cyst (Teratoma): What It Is and How It’s Treated
Reading time: about 6 minutes. This article is educational and does not replace an individual consultation.
If a scan has shown a “dermoid cyst” on your ovary, the name can sound strange and worrying. In fact, dermoid cysts are common, almost always benign, and very treatable. This article explains what they are and how they are managed.
Who this article is for
This is for women in Ahmedabad and Gujarat who have been told they have a dermoid cyst (also called a mature cystic teratoma) and want to understand what it means.
What a dermoid cyst is
A dermoid cyst is a benign ovarian cyst that arises from the cells that can form different body tissues, which is why these cysts can contain material such as fat, hair, or even small calcified structures. They are one of the most common benign ovarian growths in younger women and are almost always non-cancerous [Source: ACOG patient guidance on ovarian cysts].
How they behave
Unlike functional cysts, dermoid cysts do not usually resolve on their own, and they can slowly grow over time. Many cause no symptoms and are found incidentally on a scan; larger ones can cause discomfort or pressure. Their characteristic appearance on ultrasound often suggests the diagnosis [Source: ACOG patient guidance].
Why removal is often recommended
Because dermoid cysts tend not to disappear and can grow, removal is commonly advised, particularly for larger cysts or those causing symptoms. Removal also reduces the risk of complications such as the cyst twisting (torsion). The decision and timing depend on the cyst’s size, your symptoms, and your circumstances [Source: ESGE/AAGL guidance on ovarian surgery].
Preserving the ovary
When surgery is needed, the goal in younger women is usually to remove the cyst while preserving the healthy ovary (ovarian cystectomy), protecting fertility and hormonal function. A keyhole (laparoscopic) approach is preferred in suitable cases, with care taken to remove the cyst intact where possible [Source: ESGE/AAGL guidance].
Emergency signs
Sudden, severe pelvic pain — especially with nausea or vomiting — can indicate torsion, where the ovary twists and its blood supply is affected. This needs urgent assessment [Source: ACOG patient guidance].
What to ask
- How large is the cyst, and is removal recommended now or later?
- Will my ovary be preserved?
- Can the surgery be done by keyhole?
- What symptoms should prompt urgent review?
Ovarian cyst care in Ahmedabad
Dermoid cysts are very manageable, and ovary-preserving surgery is the priority when removal is needed. Balaji Horizon Women’s Hospital, on Science City Road in Ahmedabad, offers careful assessment and ovary-sparing laparoscopic cyst removal where appropriate.
When to seek advice
See a gynaecologist if a dermoid cyst has been found, to discuss whether and when removal is advisable — and seek urgent care for sudden severe pelvic pain [Source: ACOG patient guidance].
A note on next steps
For ovary-preserving cyst care, our team can help. Read more on our ovarian cystectomy and gynaecology pages.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dermoid cyst cancerous?
Dermoid cysts are almost always benign. A cancerous change is rare. Their typical ultrasound appearance usually suggests the diagnosis, and removal allows confirmation when needed [Source: ACOG patient guidance].
Will a dermoid cyst go away on its own?
Usually not. Unlike functional cysts, dermoid cysts do not typically resolve and can slowly grow, which is why removal is often recommended, especially for larger or symptomatic cysts [Source: ACOG patient guidance].
Will surgery affect my fertility?
The aim in younger women is to remove the cyst while preserving the healthy ovary, protecting fertility and hormone function. A keyhole, ovary-sparing approach is preferred in suitable cases [Source: ESGE/AAGL guidance].
What is ovarian torsion?
Torsion is when the ovary twists, affecting its blood supply, and can cause sudden severe pelvic pain with nausea. It needs urgent assessment. Removing a cyst electively can reduce this risk [Source: ACOG patient guidance].
Can a dermoid cyst come back?
A new dermoid cyst can occasionally develop, sometimes on the other ovary, so follow-up may be advised. Your surgeon will discuss any monitoring relevant to your case.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a qualified gynaecologist.
