[Ovarian cysts in adolescence: epidemiologic, clinical and management assessment]

To evaluate the frequency of ovarian cyst formation in the adolescents and to report on the clinical implications of these cysts.

A prospective analysis of data on 94 girls (aged 10-19) with diagnosed ovarian cysts was performed at the Gynecology Department of Aversa and Naples hospitals between 1995-2000. Operations were performed because of pains or ultrasound suspected features. The patients who were not operated on were kept under observation and had ultrasound tests monthly, receiving gestogen to facilitate resolution of the cyst and as treatment of menstrual disorders. The site, number, size and type of the cysts were examined.

The ovarian cysts were unilateral, unilocular, and simple, with the size varying between 3 cm and 5 cm in 83 cases, more than 5 cm in 8 cases and less than 3 cm in 3 cases. Among 94 patients 6 (6.4%) were initially qualified for the operation because of the strong pains or ultrasound equivocal aspect. Hormonal treatment was given in 74 cases, whereas in 14 cases only follow up sonography was performed. Cysts resolved spontaneously in 2 months on average, or in 1 month after hormonal treatment. No malignant tumors were found in the observed group.

Clinical observation periodically repeated ultrasound tests seems to be the most appropriate procedure employed at adolescent girls with asymptomatic ovarian cysts. Hormonal treatment shortened the duration of the cysts somewhat, even if in a not significant manner, and thus was useful mainly in the treatment of concomitant menstrual disorders.