Which ovarian condition is referred to as a "chocolate cyst"?

Prepare for USMLE Step 1 Pathology Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and be exam-ready!

The term "chocolate cyst" specifically refers to an endometrioma, which is a type of cyst that forms when endometrial tissue grows on the ovaries, a condition known as endometriosis. These cysts contain old blood that has a dark, chocolate-like appearance, hence the name "chocolate cyst." The presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus can lead to various symptoms, including pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and issues with fertility.

In the context of ovarian conditions, endometriomas are characterized by their distinctive appearance on imaging and histological examination, often showing a thick, chocolate-colored fluid. This contrasts sharply with the nature and appearance of other types of ovarian cysts, such as cystadenomas, which generally do not share the same associations with menstrual cycle irregularities or chronic pelvic pain. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) involves hormonal imbalances and is characterized by multiple small cysts on the ovaries but does not produce "chocolate" fluid. Ovarian teratomas are derived from germ cells and can contain a variety of tissue types but do not exhibit the characteristics of chocolate cysts associated with endometriosis.

Overall, the association of "chocolate cyst

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