Ovarian cysts in infants and children

The etiology of ovarian cysts varies with the developmental stage and hormonal milieu of the patient. In general, most ovarian cysts are functional in nature and usually resolve without treatment. Treatment is indicated if the diagnosis is in question, the cyst persists, or the patient is symptomatic. Laparoscopy has become the approach favored by most pediatric surgeons for the treatment of ovarian cysts. All surgical procedures for ovarian cysts should spare functional ovary as much as is technically possible. Simple cysts should be fenestrated. Complex or functional cysts should be excised, with preservation of the remaining ovary.