At the very beginning of the embryonic life, 3 germ cell lines exist. These germ lines have the potential to differentiate into various tissues. Germ cells are localized into the ovaries and testes and are responsible for the production of oocytes and sperms. These cells have the potential to differentiate into various tissue, most commonly into skin and its appendixes. Thus, such a cyst is called a dermoid cyst.
As a dermoid cyst involves mostly skin and its appendixes, it is usually semi-liquid, yellow-brown in color, rich in lipid and the cyst may consist of hair, tooth, bone, cartilage and nevre tissue. Its size is very variable.
Diagnosis
A dermoid cyst has few symptoms and is usually diagnosed incidentally. 65% of cases are asymptomatic. Most common symptom is pain. Abnormal vaginal bleeding and discomfort may also be seen. Rare symptoms are backache and defecation problems.
Treatment
Treatment is surgical. Surgery should be performed as it is diagnosed. Surgery may be performed either laparoscopically or an open surgery may be preferred. For reproductive age women, ovarian tissue should be preserved and only cystectomy is appropriate. If the cyst is ruptured during the operation, peritoneal cavity should be washed as cyst components may cause chemical peritonitis. Thus, dermoid cyst operations require expertise.
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