What is the Difference Between Follicular Cyst and Luteal Cyst?

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Follicular and luteal cysts are two different types of functional ovarian cysts that can occur during the normal menstrual cycle. They can cause similar symptoms, such as bleeding, pelvic pain, and weakness, but have distinct characteristics:

Follicular Cysts:

  • Occur in the ovarian follicle or Graafian follicle.
  • Arise when follicles fail to rupture during ovulation.
  • Can appear smooth, thin-walled, and unilocular.
  • Usually larger than 2.5 cm in diameter.
  • Caused by an unruptured follicle.

Luteal Cysts:

  • Occur in the corpus luteum.
  • Caused due to corpus luteum, which keeps on growing.
  • Recognized as smooth, fluctuant domes protruding above the surface of the ovary.
  • Characterized by a wall diameter greater than 3 mm.
  • Differentiated from follicular cysts on the basis of palpable characteristics and the cow's behavior.

Both types of cysts can be diagnosed through physical examination and imaging tests, and they are treated through specific medications and surgeries.

Comparative Table: Follicular Cyst vs Luteal Cyst

Here is a table comparing the differences between follicular cysts and luteal cysts:

Feature Follicular Cyst Luteal Cyst
Formation Occurs in the ovarian follicle or Graafian follicle Occurs in the corpus luteum
Cyst Wall