Ganglion Cyst
A ganglion cyst is a lump around the hand and wrist that occurs adjacent to joints or tendons. Ganglion cysts are very common. They are most frequently found on back of the wrist, the palm side of the wrist, the base of the finger on the palm side, and the top of the end joint of the finger. Your ganglion cyst may be filled with a clear, gel-like fluid and resemble a water balloon on a stalk . They may fluctuate in size, and some may eventually disappear completely. A ganglion cyst is not cancerous and will not spread to other areas.
OrthoSouth Physicians Can Treat Your Ganglion Cyst
What Causes a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion cyst can occur in patients of all ages. While their cause is unknown, the cysts may form in the presence of joint or tendon irritation, arthritis, mechanical changes, or injury.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Ganglion Cyst?
Your ganglion cyst may or may not be painful. The cysts are typically oval or round and may be soft or very firm. Cysts at the base of the finger on the palm side are typically very firm, smaller than a pea-sized nodule, and are tender to applied pressure, such as when gripping. Cysts at the far joint of the finger frequently have arthritis associated with them. At this end knuckle, the overlaying skin may become thin, and there may be a lengthwise groove in the fingernail just beyond the cyst.
How is a Ganglion Cyst Diagnosed?
The diagnosis is usually based on the location of the lump and its appearance. Light will often pass through these lumps, and this may assist in the diagnosis. Your physician may request x-rays in order to look for evidence of problems in adjacent joints.
What Are the Treatment Options for a Ganglion Cyst?
Treatment for a ganglion cyst can often be non-surgical. In many cases, these cysts can simply be observed, especially if they are painless. Ganglion cysts frequently disappear spontaneously. If the cyst becomes painful, limits activity, or is otherwise unacceptable, several treatment options are available, including:
- Splints and anti-inflammatory medication to decrease pain associated with activities
- Aspiration to remove the fluid from the cyst and decompress it (This requires placing a needle into the cyst, which can be performed in most office settings. Aspiration is a very simple procedure, but recurrence of the cyst is common.)
This information is provided directly from the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.
