Pelvis | ultrasound / ct / mri
Ovarian Cyst
An ovarian cyst means the scan showed a fluid-containing structure involving the ovary. Many ovarian cysts are physiologic or benign, but age, symptoms, size, and imaging features help determine whether follow-up is needed.
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled structure in or on the ovary, commonly seen on pelvic imaging.
Need Help With Your Own Report?
Understand Your Radiology Report
Paste your radiology report into RadDx and get a calm, plain-English explanation of the report language.
Educational only. RadDx helps explain report wording and does not replace clinician guidance.
Works with CT, MRI, ultrasound, and X-ray reports.
What it means
An ovarian cyst means the scan showed a fluid-containing structure involving the ovary. Many ovarian cysts are physiologic or benign, but age, symptoms, size, and imaging features help determine whether follow-up is needed.
Also seen as: adnexal cyst, ovarian lesion.
How common it is
Ovarian cysts are very common on pelvic imaging, particularly in premenopausal patients.
Very common pelvic imaging finding
Ovarian cysts are often reported in premenopausal patients and are frequently benign.
Common causes
- Functional ovarian cyst
- Hemorrhagic cyst
- Benign cystic ovarian lesion
- Complex adnexal mass
When doctors worry
- The cyst is complex or enlarging
- The report notes septations, nodules, or suspicious flow
- There is concern for torsion, rupture, or neoplasm
Typical follow-up
- Pelvic ultrasound often helps characterize cysts
- Some cysts are followed for resolution or stability
- Symptoms can change urgency
Example report wording
Simple left ovarian cyst.
See phrase explanationComplex adnexal cystic lesion, ultrasound follow-up recommended.
See phrase explanation
Common report phrases linked to this finding
Cholelithiasis without evidence of acute cholecystitis.
"Cholelithiasis without evidence of acute cholecystitis." is radiology report language linked to gallstones and is best understood in the context of the full imaging report.
Complex adnexal cystic lesion, ultrasound follow-up recommended.
"Complex adnexal cystic lesion, ultrasound follow-up recommended." is radiology report language linked to ovarian cyst and is best understood in the context of the full imaging report.
Simple left ovarian cyst.
"Simple left ovarian cyst." is radiology report language linked to ovarian cyst and is best understood in the context of the full imaging report.
Frequently asked questions
Does an ovarian cyst always need surgery?
No. Many ovarian cysts need no treatment or are followed with repeat imaging.
Why is ultrasound often recommended?
Ultrasound often provides better detail about internal cyst features.
Related symptom guides
These educational symptom pages explain search-intent questions that often overlap with this finding.
Clear medical disclaimer
Educational information only. Always consult your clinician for medical advice.
This page is educational only and should be used to understand report language, not to diagnose a condition or replace clinician review.
Sources
Sources and medical review process
RadDx finding pages are written for patient education using consumer-friendly radiology references, plain-language terminology resources, and cautious summary review of common imaging follow-up frameworks.
- Reviewed by
- RadDx Editorial Team
- Last reviewed
- March 10, 2026
- RadiologyInfo.org
RSNA and ACR
- MedlinePlus
U.S. National Library of Medicine
- NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
National Cancer Institute
Sources are used for patient education context and terminology support. They do not replace clinician review of your individual report.
Important Notice
Educational use only. RadDx does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or clinician supervision.
Not for emergencies. If you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate care.
Do not submit names, dates of birth, phone numbers, MRNs, addresses, or other identifying health information.