A ganglion cyst is a non cancerous mass.  It is usually not dangerous, in some cases it can cause pain.  It is the most common cause of a mass or lump in the hand.  Ganglion cysts are small sacs of fluid that form over a joint or tendon.  Common areas for ganglion cysts to occur are the wrist, finger, thumb, elbow, foot, or volar.  The volar is the palm of the hand at the base of the fingers.  Ganglion cysts can vary in size and may shrink or grow.  Sometimes ganglion cysts can go away on their own.  

 

Risk Factors

You cannot prevent yourself from getting a ganglion cyst.  The exact cause of ganglion cysts are unknown.  You are at a higher risk if you are a woman.  Women are three more times more likely to get ganglion cysts than men.  It is also more common in people who are in the age range of 20 years old to 50 years old.  Though people of all ages, even children, can develop ganglion cysts.  Having a joint injury or a chronic condition like arthritis can also raise your risk of ganglion cysts.  Inflammation of a joint or tendon can increase your risk.  Repetitive wrist or finger movements can also increase risk.  

 

Symptoms

Ganglion cysts are usually round and oval.  They can be too small to notice.  The bump may change sizes but does not move locations.  The lump can be firm or soft.  You may have one large cyst, or a bunch of tiny cysts in the same area.  The most common area for ganglion cysts to appear are on the wrists and ankles.  In some cases cysts can cause pain.  If large enough it can put pressure on the nerves that can cause tingling or numbness.  Weakness can also occur in affected fingers.  

 

Diagnosis

If you notice an unusual bump under the skin it is best to get it checked out by a doctor.  First your doctor will examine the bump.  If the bump is too small to examine they may have to use other means to examine the bump.  They can use imaging tests such as an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI.  Transillumination can also be used.  This is when a doctor shines a light through an area of the body to see if the ganglion cyst is filled with liquid or not.  Your doctor can also take a sample of the fluid from the cyst.  Your doctor will also ask you how long the cyst has been there and if the cyst has changed in size over time.  

 

Treatment

Treatment may not be needed for all ganglion cysts.  If it isn’t bothering you, you may not need treatment options.  Ganglion cysts can go away on their own.  Your doctor may recommend treatment if the ganglion cyst hurts, makes certain movements difficult, or makes you feel self-conscious about the appearance.  One of the treatment options is anti-inflammatory medications.  These medications can help minimize swelling, and ease discomfort.  Splints or braces can help support, stop repetitive movements, and help reduce swelling and pain.  Aspiration can be done with a needle to help remove fluid from the cyst.  Since you are just draining the fluid off the cyst it may return.  Surgery of a ganglion cyst is called a ganglionectomy.  This is when an orthopedic surgeon will surgically remove the cyst.  This greatly reduces the risk of the cyst coming back.  Surgery is usually a last resort if other treatments aren’t working, or if the cyst comes back after other treatments.  A ganglionectomy is an outpatient surgery, which means you will be released after your procedure is finished.  Recovery is usually between 2-6 weeks. 

A single treatment may not always work.  Ganglion cysts have a tendency to return even sometimes after surgery.  There is no way to completely prevent yourself from getting a ganglion cyst.  In some cases the cyst will cause you no pain or discomfort.  These ganglion cysts may not need treatment at all and may go away on their own.  They are non cancerous growths which means they usually are no harm even if they cause a bit of discomfort.  If you have pain or restricted movement your doctor may suggest some form of treatment to start with.  

 

READ MORE: Top 10 Ways To Prevent Arthritis And Protect Your Joint Health


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