Summary about Disease
A ganglion cyst is a noncancerous, fluid-filled lump that most commonly develops along the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands. They can also occur in the ankles and feet. The cyst looks like a small sac of liquid under the skin and can range in size from very small (pea-sized) to about an inch in diameter. Some ganglion cysts are painful, interfering with joint movement. Many, however, are painless.
Symptoms
Lump: A noticeable lump, usually on the wrist, hand, ankle, or foot.
Size: The size can fluctuate; it may grow larger with use and shrink with rest.
Pain: May be painless, or it may cause a dull ache, throbbing, or sharp pain, especially with joint movement.
Weakness: If near a nerve, it can cause weakness in the affected finger or toe.
Numbness or Tingling: Pressure on nearby nerves can cause tingling, numbness, or burning sensations.
Causes
The exact cause of ganglion cysts is unknown. It is thought that they arise when joint or tendon tissue bulges out. Some theories suggest that trauma or repetitive stress might contribute to their formation. The fluid inside the cyst is similar to synovial fluid, which lubricates joints and tendons.
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used Typically, medications are not the primary treatment for ganglion cysts. If pain is present, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen may be used for symptom management. In some cases, a doctor may inject a corticosteroid into the cyst to reduce inflammation and pain.
Is Communicable
Ganglion cysts are not communicable. They are not caused by infection and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to completely prevent ganglion cysts, as the exact cause is unknown. However, avoiding repetitive motions and activities that seem to aggravate the area might be helpful. Using wrist supports or braces during activities may also help.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of a ganglion cyst's presence is variable. Some cysts may disappear on their own without treatment. Others may persist for months or even years if left untreated. The presence and severity of symptoms (like pain) can also fluctuate over time.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Exam: A doctor can usually diagnose a ganglion cyst through a physical examination, assessing the lump's location, size, and consistency.
Transillumination: Shining a light through the cyst may reveal that it is fluid-filled.
Aspiration: Fluid may be withdrawn from the cyst with a needle for examination.
Imaging Tests: X-rays can rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or bone tumors. MRI or ultrasound may be used to visualize the cyst and its relationship to surrounding tissues.
Timeline of Symptoms
Gradual or Sudden Onset: A lump appears, either gradually or suddenly.
Fluctuating Size: The lump may grow and shrink over time.
Pain Progression: Pain, if present, may increase with activity and decrease with rest.
Nerve Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, or weakness, if present, may develop over time as the cyst grows and presses on nearby nerves. The specific timeline can vary greatly from person to person.
Important Considerations
Observation: Many ganglion cysts are harmless and may not require treatment, especially if they are painless and do not interfere with function.
Aspiration: If the cyst is painful or limits movement, aspiration (draining the fluid with a needle) may be performed. However, the cyst may recur.
Surgery: Surgical removal of the cyst is an option if other treatments fail or if the cyst is causing significant symptoms.
Recurrence: Ganglion cysts can recur even after treatment, particularly after aspiration.
Consult a Doctor: It's important to see a doctor for diagnosis and to rule out other potential causes of the lump.