Endometriotic cysts

Endometriotic cysts (Pic. 1) are formed when a tiny patch of endometrial tissue bleeds, sloughs off, becomes transplanted, and grows and enlarges. This closed sac with distinguished tissue and division may be filled with semi-solid materials, fluids or air. When it ruptures, the material spills over into the pelvis and onto the surface of the uterus, bladder, bowel, and the corresponding spaces between. The endometriotic cyst usually contain higher concentrations of stress-related factors such as reactive oxygen species (ROS; highly reactive chemical substances containing oxygen). These stress factor may induce gene mutations more frequently than contents in other cysts. In this sense, hyperestrogenism (elevated oestrogen levels) has been associated with the malignant transformation of endometriotic cysts. The micro-environment provided by endometriosis facilitates the accumulation of excess estrogen through several mechanisms.