Last Updated on February 3, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Women who are in the reproductive age range frequently have ovarian cysts. It is a common justification for gynaecological surgery in all age groups. Many different factors may contribute to the occurrence ovarian cysts. Surgery is typically not required for noncancerous ovarian cysts brought on by endocrine disorders unless they present acute symptoms like torsion, haemorrhage, or rupture. And thyroid hormone levels have been implicated to cause the development of ovarian cysts. Hence, this article summarizes the relationship between thyroid disease and ovarian cysts as well as the various hypotheses that could support the involvement of thyroid hormones in the development of ovarian cysts.
Can thyroid problems lead to the development of ovarian cysts?
Yes, there is a possibility. Primary hypothyroidism is a common hormonal disorder brought on by a lack of thyroid hormone that can harm various systems. It should be noted that Van Wyk-Grumbach syndrome, specifically in young girls, has been described as long-term hypothyroidism manifesting as an ovarian cyst. Hypothyroidism, isosexual early puberty, delayed bone age, and ovarian cystic masses are the main characteristics of the condition.
How do thyroid hormones influence the development of ovarian cysts?
Although ovarian cysts brought on by hypothyroidism are less frequently seen in adults, there have been a number of cases where chronic hypothyroidism has resulted in ovarian cysts. Thyroid hormones have been linked to the development of ovarian cysts in nearly all age groups, including postmenopausal women. These cysts frequently self-limit, have a noncancerous appearance, and hardly ever cause symptoms. Hypothyroidism as a developmental cause of ovarian cysts may not be recognized, which could unintentionally result in unnecessary surgical management.
There are various explanations describing why severe hypothyroidism causes ovarian cysts to develop. These primarily include.
- An ovarian cyst could develop as a result of high serum TSH, which stimulates FSH and LH.
- Extremely high TRH stimulates not only TSH but also gonadotropins, which in turn can cause remarkably high FSH to promote the development of ovarian cysts.
- A mutation that activates the FSH receptor and allows or intensifies the effect of TSH on the ovarian follicles.
- TSH sensitizes the ovaries to gonadotropin stimulation, resulting in ovarian hyperstimulation.
- An abnormal connective tissue infiltration can prevent the ovary’s steroid development from occurring and lead to the formation of ovarian cysts.
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