What is the most common ovarian tumor type in premenopausal women?

• A. Serous cystadenoma
• B. Functional cysts
• C. Dermoid cysts
• D. Endometriomas

Answer: (B)

Functional cysts are indeed the most common type of ovarian tumor found in premenopausal women. These cysts arise from the normal physiological processes of the menstrual cycle, primarily during the follicular phase. As follicles mature, some can develop into cysts that may contain fluid. Most functional cysts are benign and often resolve spontaneously without treatment within one or two menstrual cycles.

In the context of premenopausal women, the prevalence of functional cysts is particularly high due to the hormonal fluctuations and activity of the ovaries during the reproductive years. Conditions that influence the menstrual cycle, such as anovulatory cycles, can lead to the formation of these functional cysts.

While other types of cysts, such as serous cystadenomas, dermoid cysts, or endometriomas, do occur, they are less common compared to functional cysts in this age group. Serous cystadenomas are more frequently observed in older women, and dermoid cysts, while prevalent as well, account for a smaller percentage of ovarian tumors compared to the ubiquitous nature of functional cysts in premenopausal women. Endometriomas are specifically associated with endometriosis and do not represent the most common type of ovarian tumor overall.