Benign cystic teratomas of the ovary: a review of seventy-two cases.

Seventy-two cases of benign cystic teratoma of the ovary were diagnosed and treated at Northwick Park Hospital between 1970 and 1982. The presentation, clinical features and complications of these tumours presenting at a district general hospital during a period of over 11 years are reviewed. 66% were asymptomatic at presentation, 12.5% presented with the signs and symptoms of acute abdomen. The mean age at presentation was 37 years. Twenty-two patients had pelvic ultrasound which correctly diagnosed ovarian cyst in 9 cases. Eight had previously undergone laparotomy at which the ovaries were apparently normal.