Most benign ovarian cysts will resolve within a few years of passing through menopause (unless the patient is taking hormone replacement therapy). While the presence of an ovarian cyst in a 56 year-old woman does not necessarily mean that she has an ovarian tumor or ovarian cancer, it must be worked-up to exclude these diagnoses.
If the CA-125 level is significantly elevated, then this would be cause for some concern regarding the possibility of ovarian cancer. On the other hand, a normal CA-125 level does not rule-out the possibility of ovarian cancer.
You should probably be seen by a gynecologist who is experienced in managing ovarian lesions in postmenopausal women.
Sincerely/ Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS
DISCLAIMER:
"Ask a Doctor" questions are answered by certified physicians and other medical professionals who volunteer
their time on eHealth Forum.
For more information about experts participating in the "Ask a Doctor" Network, please visit our
medical experts page.
You may also visit our Cervical Cancer and Ovarian Cancer , for moderated patient to patient support and information.
The information provided on eHealth Forum is designed to improve, not replace, the relationship between a patient and his/her own physician.
Personal consultation(s) with a qualified medical professional is the proper means for diagnosing any medical condition.
