Chocolate Cysts

Chocolate Cyst, also known as an endometrioma, is a type of ovarian cyst characterized by fluid resembling liquid chocolate. In reality, this fluid is composed of endometrial tissue cells. When these cells attach to the ovary, they form a cyst that accumulates tissue and menstrual blood over time, becoming thick and giving it a chocolate-like appearance.

Chocolate Cysts

Chocolate cysts can spread and attach to various abdominal organs, causing chronic inflammation and adhesions, which may lead to infertility. Additionally, these cysts can infiltrate the muscular layer of the uterine wall, leading to a condition called adenomyosis, causing painful menstrual periods and abnormal uterine bleeding.

Causes of Chocolate Cysts:

Currently, it is believed that chocolate cysts occur when endometrial tissue cells flow backward through the fallopian tubes and enter the abdominal cavity, where they attach and grow. The classification of these cysts depends on the location of the growth:

1. Peritoneal Endometriosis
2. Ovarian Endometriosis
3. Uterine Endometriosis
4. Fallopian Tube Endometriosis
5. Renal, Bladder, or Intestinal Endometriosis

Symptoms of Chocolate Cysts:

• Severe menstrual pain requiring medication, with symptoms worsening over time.
• Abnormal and heavy menstrual bleeding, sometimes with blood clots.
• Abdominal, lower back, or pelvic pain, which tends to worsen during or around menstruation.
• In cases where the cysts are attached to the ovaries, a lump may be felt in the abdomen without apparent symptoms.
• In severe cases, adhesions can damage the fallopian tubes, causing infertility. If adhesions occur around the kidneys, it can lead to kidney swelling or renal failure.
• In rare cases, if endometrial tissue infiltrates the intestines, it may cause bloody stools.

Diagnosis of Chocolate Cysts or Ovarian Endometriomas:

Diagnosis involves taking a medical history and performing a physical examination. If the diagnosis is uncertain, an ultrasound may be conducted to visualize abdominal organs, or an MRI may be used for a more precise assessment of disease severity.