What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Placental Cyst

What is Cyst of Placenta? (Definition/Background Information)

• A Cyst of Placenta is a simple cyst that forms in close relation to the placenta. It is usually small (less than 3cm), single, and filled with clear fluid
• The condition is thought to occur in 2-20% of all pregnancies, either due to decreased blood supply or degenerative changes of the placenta
• Placental Cysts are usually diagnosed by ultrasound and there are no specific signs and symptoms associated with this condition
• A large cyst may cause growth restriction of the fetus, but in a majority of the cases, the prognosis is excellent

The placenta is an organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall.

• It is a disc shaped reddish brown structure that connects the fetus to the mother through the umbilical cord
• The umbilical cord contains two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein, providing a connection between maternal and fetal blood circulation
• The normal function of placenta is to supply nutrients and oxygen to the fetus from the mother’s blood and remove wastes from the fetal body
• The chorion and amnion are placental membranes. The chorion is the membrane that is present between the growing fetus and the mother. The amnion closely covers and protects the developing embryo

Who gets Cyst of Placenta? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• A Cyst of Placenta can occur in pregnant women of all ages
• It is estimated to occur in 2-20% of all pregnancies
• There is no racial, ethnic, or geographical predilection

What are the Risk Factors for Cyst of Placenta? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for a Cyst of Placenta
• Research is being performed to identify the relevant risk factors

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Cyst of Placenta? (Etiology)

Cysts of Placenta may occur due to the following factors:

• Decreased blood supply to the placenta
• Degenerative changes in the placenta

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cyst of Placenta?

There are no specific signs and symptoms associated with a Cyst of Placenta.

How is Cyst of Placenta Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of a Cyst of Placenta may include:

• Fetal ultrasound may show a Placental Cyst
• Examination of the placenta after delivery
• Tissue biopsy: Cells and tissues are examined by a pathologist under a microscope. Pathological examination is generally considered to be a ‘gold standard’ for a definitive diagnosis. The pathologist arrives at a diagnosis after analyzing pathology findings along with clinical information of the patient. A pathologist may perform special studies on tissue samples to aid in the final diagnosis (if required)

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Cyst of Placenta?

A complication of Cyst of Placenta could include that large and multiple cysts may cause growth restriction of the fetus.

How is Cyst of Placenta Treated?

• There is no specific treatment for Cysts of Placenta
• Pregnant women with this condition require regular follow-up to ensure proper fetal growth and development

How can Cyst of Placenta be Prevented?

Currently, there are no definitive methods available to prevent a Placental Cysts.

What is the Prognosis of Cyst of Placenta? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Multiple and large cysts may interfere with the normal growth of the fetus in the uterus
• But, in a majority of the cases, the prognostic outcomes are good for Cysts of Placenta

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Cyst of Placenta:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-related-disorders/