Which condition is characterized by the presences of multiple small cysts on the ovaries?

• A. Polycystic ovarian syndrome
• B. Endometrial carcinoma
• C. Ovarian torsion
• D. Cervical dysplasia

Answer: (A)

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the condition characterized by the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. This syndrome is associated with a hormonal imbalance, often involving elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance. The small cysts are actually immature follicles that fail to ovulate, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, fertility issues, and other metabolic disturbances.

In PCOS, the appearance of the ovaries on ultrasound typically reveals a "string of pearls" sign, which corresponds to the many small cysts that surround the periphery of the ovary. This is a hallmark finding that helps in diagnosing the condition.

Other conditions listed, such as endometrial carcinoma, ovarian torsion, and cervical dysplasia, do not present with multiple small ovarian cysts. Endometrial carcinoma primarily affects the lining of the uterus, ovarian torsion involves the twisting of an ovary, which can lead to severe pain and potential loss of the ovary, and cervical dysplasia refers to changes in the cells on the cervix that could potentially lead to cancer, usually identified through screening methods like Pap smears. None of these conditions is associated with the characteristic cyst formation seen in PCOS.