Hemorrhagic corpus luteum cysts: an unusual problem for pediatric surgeons.

STUDY OBJECTIVE Hemorrhagic corpus luteum cysts (HCLC) constitute a common disorder in pediatric subjects undergoing surgical intervention. HCLCs especially develop in the early period after menarche, and they are commonly associated with dysfunctional ovulation. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of surgery outcome of HCLC patients. SETTING Pediatric Surgery Unit, S. Chiara University Hospital. PARTICIPANT 13 girls with HCLC diagnosis. INTERVENTIONS Surgical treatment of HCLCs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We reviewed the clinical presentation and outcome of 13 post-menarcheal girls surgically treated for HCLCs in the Pediatric Surgical Unit from 2002 to 2006. RESULTS Primary presentation was persistent abdominal pain in 84.6% and acute abdominal pain in 15.4% of patients, respectively. Ultrasound examination showed complex ovarian masses in 77.23% cases and simple ovarian masses in 33.7% cases, respectively. Although laparoscopic excision of HCLC was performed in more than 45% cases, laparotomic approach was commonly required. After conservative surgery, ovarian size and viability were normal, as assessed by 6-month ultrasound scan. No recurrences of disease and regular menses were reported at 2 years follow-up. CONCLUSIONS In pediatric subjects with HCLC that required surgical intervention, no complications or disorder recurrence were reported. In order to preserve ovarian function, conservative surgery has to be performed whenever feasible.