Ganglion Cysts are non-cancerous fluid or fluid-like swellings that occur on or near the wrist or foot joints. They can be either soft or firm to the touch, often varying in size. The appearance is as if something is bulging from underneath the skin. They are often painless, and often will come and go over time.
CauseThere is no known cause of Ganglion Cysts, although it is speculated that the formation is due to the movement of fluid between joints in the wrist or foot. Theoretically, it is assumed that Ganglion Cysts form when fluid exits the joints, but then has no way to retreat back inside, thus creating the collection of fluid, protruding and causing the bulge underneath the skin.
Is a Ganglion Cyst cancerous?
No, it is not cancerous.
Diagnosis
Ganglion Cysts can be diagnosed in a manner of ways. Going to a specialist recommended by a general physician can allow them three options.
- MRI - Completely overkill in my opinion, especially in younger children such as babies, that potentially could need sedation for the procedure. An MRI can determine if the cyst is fluid-filled or solid, determining if the lump is something other than a Ganglion Cyst.
- Ultrasound - Also used to diagnose whether the cyst is solid or fluid-filled, though much less intensive than an MRI.
- Draining the cyst - This is the easiest and fastest way to diagnose a Ganglion Cyst due to the fact that it can be done right in the doctor's office. What will happen is the doctor will spray a very mild topical anesthetic on the skin to chill and numb the specific area. They will then insert a very small needle to break the surface of the cyst in an attempt to withdraw fluid. Because the fluid can be jelly-like at times, the doctor may have to simply squeeze the cyst to drain it with his or her fingers after a needle has broken the surface.
Will a Ganglion Cyst return after it has been removed?
Yes, a Ganglion Cyst may return even after it has been drained/removed. This is no cause for concern unless it is causing pain in the joints.
Do I need to see a doctor for my Ganglion Cyst?
Yes and No.
Yes, if the cyst is causing pain on or near the joints in the hand or foot.
No, if you are aware you have Ganglion Cysts, and they come and go with time, as well as absence of pain when they occur.
In today's age, so many people are worried about lumps and cancer that it is a comforting piece of mind to go ahead and have a doctor examine the assumed cyst. It can then either be left alone or drained if appropriately diagnosed.
Can babies get Ganglion Cysts?
Yes, in fact my daughter had one removed when she was 9 1/2 months old. It was on her ankle and quite large. We took her to our pediatrician, who then recommended an orthopedist. We opted to have the cyst drained in the office.
When he broke the surface with a needle, he drew out very little liquid, so then resorted to squeezing the rest out. It basically erupted out (not to be gross), in a clear jelly like subtance. It was blood tinged, but that is common and no cause for concern.
The only pain this caused my daughter was the initial poke with the needle. Unlike a shot, this is just a breaking of the skin, not actually being pushed into muscle, which is much more painful.
My daughter was up and running immeditely afterwards, no worse for the wear. It has since not come back.
Treatment
As stated above, treatment can be done in several ways. First, is to leave the Ganglion Cyst alone and let it absorb back into the body. Since the fluid is protein based, it will eventually disappear over time.
Removal of the cyst is the other option, most often if the cyst causes pain in the joints of the hand or foot. This can be done surgically, or drained, as I stated before.
Disclaimer
I offer this information just for what it is, a basic collection of general knowledge about Ganglion Cysts. Please, seek out medical advice and call your physician if you have any concerns or questions.
