Abstract
Ovarian cysts are often found in both the clinically predicted and the unexpected context at the current level of imaging techniques. The cytological examination of the transvaginally obtained cystic fluid can help to diagnose the nature of the cystic lesion via identification the lining structures.
It is essential to distinguish functional cysts (follicular, corpusluteal) and implantation (inclusion and endometrial) from tumour cysts (dermoid, epithelial ovarian tumours, cystic metastases). A part of the cystic lesions remains unspecified for the absence of the defining structures after the cytological examination.
Nevertheless, for its minimal invasiveness, high negative predictive value proven, and the possibility of contributing to diagnosis of selected patients (frequently with contraindications for larger diagnostic procedures), this investigation maintains its position in collaboration of a clinical specialist and a pathologist.