Fetal ovarian cysts: incidence, diagnosis and management

Greater numbers of fetal ovarian cysts are being diagnosed due to improved antenatal imaging. These numbers correspond to data from autopsy studies showing approximately 30% of neonates to have ovarian cysts. Fetal ovarian cysts pose a risk of acute and long-term complications. These risks must be weighed against the probability of cyst regression. The de- The decision to cision to intervene must be based on cyst based on cyst size, ultracharacteristic sound characteristics and clinical symptoms. Treatment options include conservative management, antenatal or neonatal cyst aspiration, laparoscopic cystectomy and laparotomy. Diagnosis is important, given the possible complications and the current management options. Criteria for management have been established at several centers; however, a controversy over conservative versus surgical therapy remains.