Cysts that form as a result of the growth of endometrial tissue, known as the lining tissue inside the uterus, are called endometriomas. Endometriomas are commonly known as chocolate cysts. They are called chocolate cysts because of the dark brown, tar-like fluid inside the cysts. In women with endometriosis, these cysts are encountered when endometrial tissue forms outside the uterus.
You can find detailed information about chocolate cyst treatment in the rest of our article. You can contact our clinic for chocolate cyst treatment in and make an appointment with .
What is a Chocolate Cyst?
Cysts that form as a result of the growth of endometrial tissue in the uterus as a result of endometriosis are called chocolate cysts. These cysts, known as endometriomas in the medical literature, are referred to as chocolate cysts because of the dark brown, thick fluid they contain.
What is Endometriosis?
The endometrium layer in the uterus thickens after menstrual bleeding and allows the embryo to attach to the uterus in the event of a possible pregnancy. In each menstrual cycle where pregnancy does not occur, the endometrium layer is shed with menstrual bleeding and is renewed again after bleeding. Endometriosis is the name given to the formation of the endometrium layer, which is normally only found in the uterus, in the ovaries or the abdominal cavity due to a problem that occurs mainly in the immune system. Menstrual-like bleeding occurs when the membrane tissue in the uterus also develops in the ovaries. As a result of this bleeding, dark brown blood accumulates in the ovaries, causing endometrioma, also known as chocolate cysts. Unlike normal cysts that can be seen during menstruation, chocolate cysts do not shrink and disappear.
Who Gets Chocolate Cysts?
Endometriosis, a disease encountered in approximately 10% of women, occurs most frequently in the age group of 25-34. The probability of encountering chocolate cysts among women with endometriosis is quite high. Chocolate cysts are seen in both ovaries in 25-30% of women with endometriosis.
What are the symptoms of chocolate cyst?
The most common complaint in endometrioma patients is severe groin pain during menstruation. Approximately 60-70% of patients experience pain. These pains occur more severely than normal menstrual pains and the intensity of the pain may increase over time. In addition, some patients may experience very heavy and excessive bleeding during menstruation.
Chocolate cysts can also cause pain during or after sexual intercourse. Patients may also experience pain during defecation or urination. In addition, infertility problems may occur due to chocolate cysts. When the severity of other symptoms is low or when pain is confused with normal menstrual pain, most patients do not see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The initial diagnosis of endometrioma is usually made by consulting a specialist due to infertility problems. You can apply to our clinic for chocolate cyst diagnosis and treatment and make an appointment.
How is Chocolate Cyst Diagnosed?
In the diagnosis of chocolate cysts, gynecological examination and ultrasonographic imaging techniques are used. Pelvic examination reveals existing problems in the internal and external genital region. If there is a cyst development due to endometriosis, the cyst is detected. It is important to be able to detect chocolate cysts by distinguishing them from other cysts that develop in the ovaries. For this, imaging is performed with transvaginal ultrasound. In transvaginal ultrasound, a device called a transducer is placed in the abdomen or vagina to obtain an image.
The location and size of endometrial tissue that has developed outside the uterus can be determined with the magnetic resonance imaging method, also known as MRI. The most definitive result in the diagnosis of chocolate cysts is achieved with the laparoscopic method. Laparoscopy is performed under general anesthesia by making a small incision in the belly button area. It allows clear information about the location and size of the cyst. If necessary, a biopsy can be performed by taking a tissue sample from the detected endometrioma. During laparoscopy, chocolate cysts can be completely removed and treated.
How is Chocolate Cyst Treated?
In the treatment of chocolate cysts, medication and surgical intervention can be used. Sometimes, both methods may need to be used together. In cases where medication does not work, surgery can be used.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to prevent the intense and severe pain that patients experience during their menstrual periods. Hormone supplements can also be given to patients to relieve these pains caused by chocolate cysts. Endometrial tissue first thickens under the influence of hormones produced in the body during the menstrual cycle, then breaks down and is removed from the body with menstrual bleeding. When hormone supplements are given to the patient, hormonal functions are suppressed and thus endometrial tissue development is suppressed. However, hormone therapy cannot be used in women who want to get pregnant.
In patients who cannot be treated with medication or who cannot achieve the desired results with medication, laparoscopic surgery is used. Laparoscopic surgery is performed by making a small incision in the belly button area while the patient is under general anesthesia. With the help of these small incisions, the area where the cyst is located is reached and the treatment is completed by removing the cyst. Laparoscopic surgical treatment of endometrioma requires a technique that requires extreme competence. In this treatment, it is extremely important to apply the treatment without causing a decrease in ovarian reserve.
Chocolate Cyst Treatment Prices
Chocolate cyst treatment is planned by a comprehensive examination of the patient by a specialist and experienced physician in the field. The treatment to be applied is determined according to the patient’s history and the symptoms seen in the patient. Therefore, chocolate cyst treatment prices may vary. You can contact our clinic to get detailed information about chocolate cyst treatment prices in ; You can make an appointment with .