A curious case of ovarian cysts

Benign mature cystic teratomas are a form of ovarian germ cell tumor that originates from primordial germ cells in the ovaries. Of the three types of teratoma neoplasms, benign mature cystic teratomas (also called dermoid cysts) are the most common. Patients may present with intermittent abdominal or pelvic pain, abdominal enlargement, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, or may be asymptomatic. Clinicians should have a high suspicion for benign mature cystic teratomas, which account for more than 20% of all ovarian neoplasms. This article focuses on the clinical symptoms, ovarian growth characteristics, pathophysiology, potential complications, management options, and recurrence of benign mature cystic teratomas.