The difference between ovarian polyps and cysts

Ovarian polyps and ovarian cysts are two different gynecological diseases. The main differences are reflected in the tissue source, morphological characteristics and clinical manifestations. Ovarian polyps are usually neoplasms formed by ectopic endometrium tissue on the surface of the ovary, while ovarian cysts are mostly fluid-filled sac-like structures inside or on the ovary.

1. Differences in organizational sources

Ovarian polyps are a manifestation of endometriosis, which is essentially the abnormal growth of endometrial cells on the surface of the ovary. Ovarian cysts originate from the tissue of the ovary itself and can be divided into functional cysts such as corpus luteum cysts, or pathological cysts such as teratomas. Patients with endometriosis may experience secondary dysmenorrhea and can undergo laparoscopic surgery to remove polyps and relieve symptoms.

2. Different morphological structures

Polyps are mostly solid papillary protrusions, with a tough texture and a diameter of usually less than 3 cm. Ultrasound examination shows a hyperechoic mass. Cysts appear as round or oval anechoic areas with thin and smooth walls, ranging from a few millimeters to 20 centimeters in diameter. Huge cysts may compress the bladder and cause frequent urination. Chocolate cysts may appear as tiny light spots due to the presence of old blood.

3. Differences in clinical symptoms

Ovarian polyps are often accompanied by menstrual abnormalities such as increased menstrual flow and cycle disorders, and some patients have pain during sexual intercourse. Most ovarian cysts are asymptomatic. Larger cysts may cause a feeling of distension in the lower abdomen. Severe abdominal pain and vomiting may occur in acute pedicle torsion. Physiologic cysts such as follicular cysts may resolve spontaneously, whereas endometrioid cysts require hormonal therapy.

4. Imaging performance

On ultrasonography, polyps appear as hyperechoic nodules on the ovarian surface with less blood flow signal. Cysts appear as well-defined fluid dark areas, septations can be seen in serous cystadenoma, and internal echoes in mucinous cystadenoma are uneven. MRI examination can better distinguish the components of the cyst content. For example, fat signals can be seen in dermoid cysts.

5. Comparison of treatment options

Asymptomatic small polyps can be observed and followed up, while those with obvious symptoms require combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic surgery. The treatment of ovarian cysts depends on the type. For corpus luteum cysts, Guizhi Fuling capsules can be taken, while for teratomas, surgical removal is required. After surgery, Sanjie Analgesic Capsules can be used to prevent recurrence. It is recommended that cysts with a diameter of more than 5 cm undergo surgical treatment as soon as possible.

It is recommended to have regular gynecological examinations, especially if you have abnormal vaginal bleeding or persistent abdominal pain, you should seek medical treatment promptly. Keep the perineum clean every day to avoid infection, and avoid strenuous exercise during menstruation. Pay attention to supplementing the diet with high-quality protein such as fish, meat and soy products, and limit the intake of high-fat foods. Moderate exercise such as yoga can improve pelvic blood circulation, but avoid movements that increase abdominal pressure. If menstrual irregularities or lower abdominal discomfort occur for more than two weeks, vaginal ultrasound and tumor marker testing are required.