(Cyst, Ganglion; Ganglion)
Definition
Definition
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac. It is usually attached to the membrane that surrounds a tendon or a joint lining. Ganglion cysts usually appear on the back of the wrist. They may also be on the underside of the wrist, hand, fingers, or feet. Ganglion cysts are not cancerous.
Ganglion CystCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
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Causes
Causes
The cause of ganglion cysts is not known.
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Ganglion cysts are more common in young people and women. Participating in sports that put a lot of repeated stress on wrists increases your chance of developing a ganglion cyst.
Symptoms
Symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- A soft bump, usually on the back of the wrist
- Pain or tenderness at the site of the bump, but they do not always result in pain
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Most ganglion cysts are easily diagnosed based on the location and appearance.
If the diagnosis is not clear, your imaging studies or a biopsy may be done to help confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment
Some ganglion cysts go away without treatment. If the cyst is tender or unsightly, you may want treatment. Even with treatment, ganglion cysts can return.
Note: Do not attempt to smash the cyst with a heavy object, a traditional home remedy. This is unlikely to get rid of the cyst, but it is likely to cause injury.
Treatments include:
Monitoring
Because many ganglion cysts disappear on their own, watching it to make sure it is improving may be all that is needed.
Immobilization
You may need to wear a splint on your wrist. Ganglion cysts usually get smaller with less activity and larger with more activity.
Aspiration
A needle is put into the cyst to drain the fluid.
Corticosteroid Injection
A steroid solution is injected into the cyst. This is usually done after the cyst is drained.
Surgery
The cyst can be surgically removed. This is done when they are large and unsightly or painful. Cysts may return even after surgery.
Prevention
Prevention
There are no current guidelines for preventing ganglion cysts.
RESOURCES:
Sports Med—American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine http://www.sportsmed.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org
References:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated May 6, 2014. Accessed September 29, 2014.
Ganglia (ganglion cysts). Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at:
http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/musculoskeletal-and-connective-tissue-disorders/hand-disorders/ganglia
Updated May 2013. Accessed September 29, 2014.
Ganglion cyst of the wrist and hand. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Ortho Info website. Available at:
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00006
Updated March 2013. Accessed September 29, 2014.
Last Updated: 9/29/2014