Ganglion Cyst - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What Is a Ganglion Cyst?

A noncancerous growth that develops commonly on the tendons or joints located on the ankles, feet, wrists, or hands is called a ganglion cyst. They look like small bumps on the skin's surface. These cysts are usually oval or spherical and filled with a gelatinous fluid. They can be as small as a pea or can grow as big as an inch. Larger ganglion cysts can cause pain if they press on a nerve passing nearby. And in some cases, their location interferes with the movement of the joint.

Symptomatic cysts are usually drained using a needle by the doctor, or it is surgically removed. But in cases where there are no symptoms, treatment is not necessary, and the cysts might go away on their own.

What Does a Ganglion Cyst Look Like?

A ganglion cyst resembles a small water balloon growing out of the joint or the tendon lining. When the wrist or other joint is moved, the cyst will bulge out in the tissue surrounding that joint or tendon. The cyst contains a fluid that is thick and similar to the fluid seen surrounding the joints and tendons.

The characteristics of a ganglion cyst are:

• Location-

1. They mostly develop in the joints and tendons covering it.

2. Usually, it affects the wrists or hands.

3. Ganglion cysts on the foot are the second most common type.

4. They can also be seen near other joints.

• Size and Shape-

1. They are round or oval in shape.

2. Measures less than one inch in diameter.

3. Some cysts cannot be felt as they are very small.

4. The cyst can get big when repetitive motions are performed using the joint.

What Are the Types of Ganglion Cysts?

Ganglion cysts can manifest in various locations throughout the body, each with distinct characteristics and potential symptoms:

• Wrist Ganglion Cyst - This is common on the back of the wrist, particularly in young adults. It may also occur on the front of the wrist.

• Ganglion Cyst of a Foot - Ganglion cyst foot can develop on the top of the foot or ankle. Ganglion cyst foot is often associated with bone spurs or damage to joints and tendons due to arthritis (joint inflammation). A ganglion cyst foot may be seen as a noticeable lump. It may change over time, sometimes becoming larger or smaller.

• Mucous Cyst (Mucoid Cyst) - This commonly occurs at the end joint of a finger and is connected to the joint capsule. It is often associated with osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease).

• Flexor Tendon Sheath Ganglion - This develops along the flexor tendons of the fingers and can cause discomfort and affect finger movement.

• Volar Ganglion Cyst - This presents as a pea-sized bump on the palm or at the base of a finger. This may cause pain during gripping. These cysts often appear suddenly and may resolve without treatment.

What Are the Symptoms Associated With a Ganglion Cyst?

Most ganglion cysts manifest as a soft, stationary lump whose size may fluctuate. Typically, they are devoid of pain, and swelling can develop gradually or suddenly. Additional symptoms of a ganglion cyst include:

• A recurring presence and disappearance of the lump.

• The existence of either a single large cyst or several smaller ones.

• Some level of discomfort, particularly following an injury or due to repetitive movements.

• Compression of nerves leads to sensations of tingling or numbness.

• Weakening of the affected finger if the cyst is linked to a tendon.

• Persistent pain that exacerbates with joint movement.

What Causes a Ganglion Cyst?

Doctors do not know the exact cause of a ganglion cyst. Experts believe that the stress on joints due to overuse or trauma triggers the development of this cyst. It might also result from a synovial fluid leak from a joint into its surrounding area.

Who Is Prone to Developing a Ganglion Cyst?

• Females are more susceptible than males to get a ganglion cyst.

• People between the ages of 15 and 40 years are more susceptible.

• People suffering from osteoarthritis may develop ganglion cysts in the finger joints.

• Any joint or tendon injury increases the risk of developing ganglion cysts.

• Individuals who excessively use specific joints are more prone to developing ganglion cysts. For example, female gymnasts often heavily use their wrists and hands due to the weight-bearing nature of activities, making these joints more susceptible to the development of ganglion cysts.

How Is a Ganglion Cyst Diagnosed?

The doctor will apply pressure on the cyst and check for any discomfort or pain. Then, the doctor will hold a torch close to the cyst to see if the light shines through it. If the growth is filled with liquid, light passes through the cyst, and it gets illuminated.

If needed, the doctor might suggest an X-ray, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) so that other conditions like arthritis or a tumor can be ruled out.

The diagnosis is then confirmed by drawing the fluid from the cyst using a needle. The fluid from a ganglion cyst will look thick and clear.

How Is a Ganglion Cyst Treated?

If the cyst is painless and is not compressing any nerve, then no treatment is required. But if the cyst is aesthetically disturbing or causing pain and discomfort, then the following treatment options are available:

1. Immobilization - As activity makes the ganglion grow larger, the area is temporarily immobilized with a brace or splint. The cyst then shrinks and relieves pressure from the nearby nerve. Long-term immobilization is not recommended as it can damage or weaken the muscles in the joint.

2. Aspiration - The doctor drains the fluid from the cyst using a needle. But the cyst can still recur.

3. Surgery - If no other treatment option works, the doctor surgically removes the cyst and its attachment to the joint or tendon. This can injure the surrounding blood supply, muscles, and nerves in rare cases.

To protect the area after surgery, follow these tips:

• Make sure to follow the doctor's aftercare instructions properly.

• Wear a splint or brace for a few days if the cyst was removed from the hand or wrist.

• Take painkillers prescribed by the doctor.

• Keep the hands and feet raised to prevent the surgery site from swelling up.

If pain and discomfort are present for more than a week or if the surgical site appears infected, consult a doctor immediately.

At home, for a ganglion cyst foot, opt for soft or open shoes to prevent friction. Additionally, consider pain relief with medications like Ibuprofen. For a ganglion cyst foot, limit movements and activities until consulting a doctor.

Is It Advisable to Hit a Ganglion Cyst With a Blunt Object?

Ganglion cysts were traditionally treated by hitting them with a book or other blunt objects. However, it is said that this method is neither safe nor effective. Avoid hitting the cyst, as the force can damage the joint, tendon, or other nearby structures. Do not pop the cyst, as it can cause infection.

Conclusion

A ganglion cyst is not a serious health condition; it usually does not result in severe complications. But if it is causing discomfort or limiting the range of motion, then it is best to consult an orthopedician and traumatologist. The risk of the cyst forming again is high after surgical removal, as it leaves a scar.