Paratubal or Paraovarian Cysts
Synonyms/Description
Adnexal cyst, mesothelial or paramesonephric cyst
Etiology
Paratubal and paraovarian cysts arise from the broad ligament. They constitute 10% of adnexal masses. They are usually benign but may rarely (reportedly 2%) contain malignant or borderline elements.
Etiologies for paratubal cysts include mesosalpingeal cysts, hydatid cysts of Morgagni, and paratubal subserosal cysts arising from Müllerian duct remnants, as opposed to paraovarian cysts, which arise from mesonephric tubules (Wolffian duct) and are mesothelial in origin.
Ultrasound Findings
Paratubal and paraovarian cysts are typically unilocular thin-walled adnexal cysts that are separate from the ovaries. Paratubal cysts are usually farther removed from the ovaries than paraovarian cysts, which are usually adjacent to the ovary. These cysts can (rarely) cause tubal or adnexal torsion or undergo hemorrhage or rupture, resulting in severe pelvic pain. Occasionally paratubal or paraovarian cysts can have septations, nodularities, and excrescences, suggesting a malignancy (occurs in 2% of such cysts).
Differential Diagnosis
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