Definition

Noun: A dermoid cyst is a type of cystic tumor, typically non-cancerous (benign). It is characterized by a wall lined with epithelial tissue (skin-like tissue) and a cavity that can contain various other materials, such as hair, teeth, skin glands, or fatty tissue.

Usage

The term is used in medical contexts to describe a specific kind of congenital or developmental cyst. * The ultrasound revealed a dermoid cyst on her ovary. * Dermoid cysts are often present from birth but may not be discovered until later in life. * Surgical removal is the standard treatment for a symptomatic dermoid cyst.

Advanced Usage

• Pathology: In pathology, a dermoid cyst is classified as a type of teratoma, specifically a mature cystic teratoma, containing well-differentiated tissues derived from more than one embryonic germ layer (ectoderm and often mesoderm).
  • The pathology report confirmed the mass was a benign dermoid cyst containing sebaceous material and hair follicles.

Variants and Related Words

• Mature cystic teratoma: This is a more precise clinical and pathological synonym for an ovarian dermoid cyst.
• Cyst: A general term for a closed sac-like structure.
• Teratoma: A broader category of tumors that may contain several different types of tissue, of which a dermoid cyst is a common, well-differentiated form.

Synonyms

• Benign cystic teratoma
• Mature cystic teratoma (specific to ovarian locations)

Related Phrases

• To excise a dermoid cyst: This is the standard medical phrase for its surgical removal.
  • The surgeon will excise the dermoid cyst laparoscopically.

Noun

1. a cystic tumor (usually benign) with a wall lined with epithelium and a cavity containing other material