Ovarian Cystic Disease
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that often form during the course of a menstrual cycle. Ovarian cysts form on or in the ovaries. Usually ovarian cysts are harmless and do not cause much discomfort. Most ovarian cysts form when the follicles are not reabsorbed by the body and instead persist and form cysts. While most ovarian cysts are resolved sans any treatment, some cysts may need to be attended to. Rarely are ovarian cysts life threatening; unless there is danger of rupture and internal bleeding. Most often ovarian cystic disease is benign. A woman suffering from ovarian cystic disease may experience dull pelvic pain, menstrual irregularities and pain during intercourse. If there is any sudden pelvic pain accompanied by vomiting or fever, it is imperative to see a doctor at once. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where there multiple cysts lead to metabolic dysfunctioning. It manifests in symptoms such as obesity, infertility, acne and excessive body hair.
A pelvic examination and ultrasound will reveal presence of ovarian cysts. Hormone levels are tested for abnormalities. A CAT scan or MRI scan can also aid in diagnosing ovarian cysts. Often ovarian cysts may not need any active treatment. The treatment for ovarian cystic disease hinges on the size of the cysts, its growth pattern and the age of the woman. Use of birth control pills is sometimes recommended to reduce the size and symptoms of ovarian cystic disease. Laparoscopy is used to study the ovarian cysts and sometimes remove them. Cystectomy is the surgical procedure to remove the ovarian cysts without removing the ovary. This done for cysts that persist for more than a few months and grow larger than 6 cms in size. A woman can reduce the chances of ovarian cystic disease with healthy diet and fitness regimen, thereby improving overall health condition.
Ganglion Cyst
Ganglion cyst is a non-cancerous bump or mass that forms under the skin. A ganglion cyst usually forms on the top of the wrist or the underside of the wrist. Ganglion is a Greek word that indicates 'a knot of tissue'. Ganglion cysts are also known to develop on the joints of the shoulder, elbow, knee, hip, foot or ankle. Ganglion cysts are noticed more commonly among women. When connective tissues around a joint become inflamed and fill with fluid, a ganglion cyst is formed. Ganglion cysts formed on the fingers can lead to deformed finger nails.
The ganglion cyst tends to grow in size when there is more activity. Large ganglions are often unsightly. Occult ganglions are smaller and remain hidden under the skin. Ganglion cysts are soft and moveable. This lump becomes larger in persons who are more active like gymnasts and apply pressure on the nerves passing through the joint. Occupational factors such as repeated pressure or excessive overuse of certain joints can lead to the formation of ganglion cysts.
A doctor will examine the lump and check its size and if there is any tenderness. Usually ganglion cysts are painless but there may be slight tenderness that can affect movement of the affected bone. X-rays or ultrasound may be taken to rule out tumors, arthritis or other bone problems. In some cases, ganglion cysts eventually disappear by themselves. But they may recur. In cases of painful ganglions, the fluid will be aspirated adn drained. Perssons suffering from osteoarthritis may notice mucuous cysts - a type of ganglion cyst that needs surgical removal. The surrounding area is numbed and the fluid is taken out with a thin needle. Often NSAIDs are prescribed to tackle any shooting pain or ache associated with ganglion cysts. Ice packs can give some relief.
Breast calcification
Calcification is a common process where small spots of calcium spots deposit themselves in breast tissue. These deposits can be the result of aging or other breast conditions such as fibroadenomas or cysts. Inflammation or foreign bodies such as implants or stitches can also lead to calcification.
Calcium phosphate crystals tend to aggregate into clumps, more so in collaboration with collagens. Collagens are insoluble proteins found in tissues. Calcification can occur in tissues and muscles of the hips, shoulders, elbows, hands and chest also.
Breast Microcalcifications
Macrocalcifications are coarse calcium deposits and are usually representative of degeneration of the breasts, either due to inflammation, injuries or aging of the breast arteries. Such calcifications are generally benign and are usually found in women over the age of 50.
This type of calcification is found as tiny specks of calcium in the breast. A cluster is an area where there is a proliferation of many microcalcifications. Such clusters may be cancerous. Breast microcalcifications are not felt on self breast examination. When a mammogram shows a spot of calcium buildup, it is called a microcalcification.
By itself, microcalcification is not a cause for worry as it can occur due to many reasons, not always cancerous. It is when these microcalcifications in the breast appear in tight clusters of irregular shapes that they become cause for concern.
When these breast microcalcifications appear in a scattered manner, they are usually indicative of benign breast tissue. Biopsy of some tissue is done for diagnosis. Microcalcifications in the breast are common during menopause. Injury or breast surgery can also lead to microcalcification.
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