Simple ovarian cysts: frequency and outcome in girls aged 2-9 years

Many studies have examined the sonographic appearance of human ovary in the childhood period and showed the presence of heterogenecity in the ovary due to cyst formation which may be age-related or because of hormonal stimulation. These studies classified these simple cysts into microcyst (< 9 mm) and macrocyst (> 9 mm). Also some of the studies reported that these cysts are frequent during childhood while others did not. We conducted this study to examine the prevalence and outcome of these simple ovarian cysts in girls aged between 2 and 9 years. One-hundred and eight girls aged 2 to 9 years were studied prospectively at Prince Zaid Hospital (PZH) in south Jordan during the period from 1 April, 1998 to 30 May, 1999. Simple cysts (micro- and macrocysts) were the aim of the study. Visualization of the ovaries was performed using a 5-MHz transducer with monthly follow-up. Among 108 girls examined, 183 ovaries were imaged and 65 simple ovarian cysts were seen with an incidence of 35.5%. Microcysts accounted for 83.1% and macrocysts for 16.9%. There was no significant difference regarding the visualization of the right or left ovary and the distribution of ovarian cysts (p > 0.2); 89.1% of ovarian cysts resolved within 6 months, and 10.9% persisted more than 6 months. Interestingly, all persisting ovarian cysts were macrocysts. No adverse consequences for these ovarian cysts were noted. We have concluded that simple ovarian cysts can be seen in all age groups between 2 to 9 years. They are not clinically significant, and the majority resolve within 6 months.