Multiple dermoid cysts within the same ovary: our experience of a rare case with review of the literature

Abstract

Objective: Ovarian dermoid cysts are relatively frequent ovarian lesions that can be easily diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasonography. However, the recognition of multiple dermoid cysts, separated by normal ovarian tissue, within a single ovary is rare.

Case: We present a case with bilateral dermoid cysts, four dermoid cysts within the right ovary and one in the contralateral ovary. Transvaginal ultrasonography showed hyperechogenic areas in the right ovary with a hypoechogenic area in front of them; the hyperechogenic areas were separated by areas with the echogenicity of normal ovarian tissue and indentation, suggesting the presence of multiple dermoid cysts within the same ovary.

Conclusion: Preoperative ultrasonographic suspicion of multiple dermoid cysts within the same ovary might contribute to a better decision about the surgical approach.