Asymptomatic Simple Ovarian Cyst in Postmenopausal Women: Syndrome of ‘Visible Ovary’

Abstract

Simple cysts of the ovary are quite common, with a prevalence of 5 to 17%. Advances in the technology of ultrasound and the increasing frequency of use of TVS has made it all the more important to have knowledge of the natural history of simple asymptomatic postmenopausal cysts. Previously, due to the paucity of data, postmenopausal women with asymptomatic simple cysts were managed much too aggressively. Current available data suggest a more conservative approach with serial ultrasounds, Doppler evaluation and CA-125 levels. Further studies are needed in order to have definitive guidelines for the gynecologic practitioner.

Ovarian cysts in post-menopausal women

“…Benign cysts can also be determined by color Doppler measuring the resistive index. When the resistive index is normal in both ovaries there is a high probability that the cyst is benign 3 .…”