Ganglion cysts

Overview

Ganglion cysts are benign lumps that commonly develop along tendons or joints in the wrists or hands, though they can also occur in ankles and feet. These cysts are typically filled with a thick, jellylike fluid and vary in size, often changing over time. While generally non-cancerous, ganglion cysts can cause discomfort if they press on nearby nerves or affect joint movement.

Types of Ganglion cysts

1. Dorsal Wrist Ganglion Cysts: These are the most common type, appearing on the back of the wrist.
2. Volar Wrist Ganglion Cysts: Found on the front of the wrist.
3. Flexor Tendon Sheath Ganglion Cysts: Occur along the tendons of the fingers.
4. Ankle and Foot Ganglion Cysts: Less common than wrist ganglion cysts but can still occur in these locations.

Causes of Ganglion cysts

Ganglion cysts develop when synovial fluid, which normally lubricates joints and tendons, becomes trapped and forms a cyst. The exact cause is not always clear but may involve:

• Joint or Tendon Injury: Trauma to a joint or tendon can trigger cyst formation.
• Joint or Tendon Degeneration: Wear and tear over time may lead to cyst development.
• Repetitive Stress or Micro-Trauma: Activities that stress a joint or tendon repeatedly.

Risk Factors of Ganglion cysts

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing ganglion cysts:

• Age and Gender: Most common in individuals aged 20-40 years, and more prevalent in women.
• Joint Stress: Activities or occupations involving repetitive joint stress.
• Previous Joint or Tendon Injury: Increases the risk of cyst formation.

Symptoms of Ganglion cysts

Preventions of Ganglion cysts

While ganglion cysts cannot always be prevented, measures such as:

• Avoiding Repetitive Joint Stress: Modifying activities that strain joints.
• Protecting Joints: Using proper equipment or techniques during physical activities.

Diagnosis of Ganglion cysts

Diagnosing ganglion cysts typically involves:

• Physical Examination: Feeling and observing the cyst's location and characteristics.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and assess cyst size.
• Aspiration: Draining fluid from the cyst with a needle to examine its contents.

Treatment for Ganglion cysts

Treatment options depend on the cyst's size, location, and symptoms:

• Observation: No treatment if the cyst is small and asymptomatic.
• Aspiration (Needle Drainage): Removing fluid to reduce cyst size and relieve symptoms.
• Surgery (Excision): Removing the cyst and, if necessary, part of the joint capsule to prevent recurrence.

When to seek medical attention ?

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Increasing Pain: Especially if accompanied by swelling or redness.
• Changes in Cyst Size: Rapid growth or persistent enlargement.
• Joint Stiffness or Instability: Difficulty moving the affected joint.