Dermoid cysts of the ovary: their ultrasonographic appearances

Ultrasonograms of 45 patients with 51 surgically proved benign cystic teratomas (dermoid cysts) of the ovary were reviewed to evaluate the ultrasonographic appearance of this entity. Contrary to several recent reports stressing a "typical" appearance for ovarian dermoid cysts, ie, an echogenic focus with acoustic shadowing situated within a predominantly cystic mass, the authors observed a much broader spectrum of appearances. Thirty-three percent of the cases demonstrated "typical" findings, 23.5% were predominantly solid, 20% were almost entirely cystic, and 23.5% were not visible. Ultrasound and conventional radiography in patients with dermoid cysts were compared: Ultrasonography contributed significantly to the correct diagnosis in the majority of cases. Because ultrasonography lacks ionizing radiation, and its use may reveal unrelated pelvic pathology, it should be the initial diagnostic modality in the examination of patients with suspected dermoid cysts of the ovary.