Which type of ovarian cyst is associated with endometriosis?

Appeared in: KPSC Staff Nurse - 2015

Explanation

An endometrioma is the specific type of ovarian cyst that forms as a direct result of endometriosis.
In endometriosis, endometrial-like tissue implants on the ovaries.
This ectopic tissue responds to monthly hormonal cycles, bleeding and accumulating over time to form a cyst filled with thick, old, dark brown blood.
This characteristic appearance gives it the common name "chocolate cyst.".

Option A: A dermoid cyst, also known as a mature cystic teratoma, is a benign germ cell tumor. It is not caused by endometriosis.
Option B: A corpus luteum cyst is a type of functional cyst. It forms after ovulation when the corpus luteum fails to break down and instead fills with fluid.
Option D: A follicular cyst is the most common type of functional ovarian cyst. It occurs when a follicle, which contains the egg, fails to rupture and release the egg during ovulation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Association between endometriosis and specific types of ovarian cysts as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Differentiating between types of ovarian cysts is crucial for determining the correct management plan, as functional cysts often resolve on their own, while endometriomas and dermoid cysts may require surgical intervention.
Endometriomas are a significant factor in pelvic pain and infertility, and their presence confirms a diagnosis of at least moderate endometriosis.
Nurses must educate patients with any large ovarian cyst about the symptoms of ovarian torsion (sudden, severe, unilateral pelvic pain, often with nausea), which is a surgical emergency.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question stem: "endometriosis."
Recall the definition of endometriosis: the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
Consider how this ectopic tissue would behave on an ovary. It would bleed cyclically, forming a collection of old blood.
Evaluate the options: 'Dermoid,' 'corpus luteum,' and 'follicular' cysts have different origins (germ cell and functional, respectively).
'Endometrioma' directly relates to the term 'endometriosis' and describes the resulting blood-filled cyst.
Select the option that logically follows from the pathophysiology of the condition mentioned in the stem.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Association between endometriosis and specific types of ovarian cysts.
Stem keywords: ovarian cyst, endometriosis
Lead-in keywords: Which type

Qy1JFngbb3w9sUiBgOBc8

E6 Gynecology Williams p. 234-283

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 5-10

Practise the full KPSC Staff Nurse - 2015

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.