Nonfunctional or complex cysts are caused by:

The correct answer is that nonfunctional or complex cysts are characterized by their development due to factors other than hormonal influence. Nonfunctional cysts, which often do not produce hormones like their functional counterparts (e.g., follicular or luteal cysts), can arise from various physiological changes or simply the natural processes of the ovaries.

While hormonal influences typically affect functional cysts, nonfunctional cysts are often the result of other mechanisms such as developmental anomalies, inflammation, or obstruction of normal ovarian function. These cysts often require further investigation to rule out complications, such as the presence of a tumor, but the key factor defining them is their lack of hormonal activity.

Understanding that nonfunctional cysts are not related to hormonal influences helps clarify their nature and distinguishes them from functional cysts that do have hormonal involvement, which is a crucial aspect in the clinical management and diagnosis of ovarian cysts.