Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled swellings that tend to form on
top of joints or tendons in the wrists, hands, and feet. They have the
appearance of firm or spongy sacs of liquid and their insides consist of
a sticky, clear, thick, jelly-like fluid. Ganglion cysts
are idiopathic, which means they generally form for unknown reasons. As
painless and benign (not dangerous) growths, ganglion cysts often do
not require treatment and go away on their own.
According to Medilexicon's medical dictionary, a ganglion cyst is "A
cyst containing mucopolysaccharide-rich fluid within fibrous tissue or,
occasionally, muscle bone or a semilunar cartilage; usually attached to
a tendon sheath in the hand, wrist, or foot, or connected with the
underlying joint."
A ganglion is also a collection of nerve cell bodies located outside the
central nervous system. This article refers only to fluid-like
swellings that form on top of joints, tendons in the wrists, hands and
feet (ganglion cysts).
Who gets ganglion cysts?
Women are more likely than men to develop ganglion cysts. The risk of ganglion cysts is also greater for those who stress
the wrist and hand with regular repetitive movement, who have
osteoarthritis, and who have injured joints or tendons in the hands or
feet.
What causes ganglion cysts?
The exact causes of ganglion cysts remain unknown. However, some
researchers and physicians believe that small cysts can form when trauma
damages the tissue of a joint. A well-supported theory posits that
ganglion cysts form because of a flaw in the joint capsule or tendon
sheath that permits the joint tissue to protrude outwards.
What are the symptoms of a ganglion cyst?
A ganglion cyst usually appears as a stationary, smooth bump from 1 to 3
centimeters in diameter. The cyst may disappear and reappear, may be
soft or firm, and it may change size. Sometimes, a ganglion cyst will
cause pain, aching, or numbness if it presses upon nerves. When attached
to a tendon, the cyst can make the affected area feel weaker.
How are ganglion cysts diagnosed?
A physical examination is generally sufficient for diagnosing a ganglion
cyst. A doctor may also order imaging tests such as an X-ray, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in order to learn more about the characteristics of the cyst and to rule out conditions such as arthritis
and malignant tumors. Confirmation of a ganglion cyst also may be aided
by aspiration - when a doctor uses a syringe to gather fluid from
inside the cyst.
How are ganglion cysts treated?
Ganglion cysts often do not require treatments, as they will rupture and
disappear on their own. However, it is possible to use a syringe to
remove the fluid (aspiration) or resect the entire ganglion in a
surgical procedure. Aspiration also may involve injection of a steroid
for anti-inflammatory purposes and a splinting of the cyst area to
prevent it from moving. There is no guarantee that ganglion cysts will
not reappear after any type of procedure.
How can ganglion cysts be prevented?
Because the causes of ganglion cysts are not well-understood, there are not suggested preventive measures.
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