Theca lutein cyst

A Theca lutein cyst is a type of bilateral functional ovarian cyst filled with clear, straw-colored fluid. To be classified a functional cyst, the mass must reach a diameter of at least three centimeters.

These cysts originate when Beta-human chorionic gonadotropins (HCG) is elevated to an abnormally high level, which can occur due to multifetal gestations or molar pregnancies. Typically associated with gestational trophoblastic conditions such as hydatidiform moles, these cysts may be drained at time of D&C, but more often they are expectantly managed, with slow resolution noted as the HCG level drops.

Rarely, when the theca-lutein cysts are stimulated by gonadotropins, massive ascites can result. In most cases however, abdominal symptoms are minimal and restricted to peritoneal irritation when the cyst hemorrhages. Surgical intervention may be required to remove ruptured or infarcted tissue.

Women who smoke have a twofold increase for functional cysts.