Ganglion Cysts

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form on the tendons or joints
in your hands, wrists, or fingers. These cysts are not harmful or cancerous,
and ganglion cysts are common in people of all ages.

What causes a ganglion cyst?

Doctors do not know what causes ganglion cysts. It’s believed that,
in some cases, trauma may damage the joint tissue. They might also come
from a defect in the tendon or joint. It’s thought that this trauma
or defect could cause the joint tissue to push outward.

How are ganglion cysts diagnosed?

In general, characteristics of a ganglion cyst include:

• Soft to the touch
• Measures 1 to 3 centimeters across
• Develops gradually or suddenly
• Can be painless or painful
• Can cause weakness if attached to a tendon

To confirm that you have a ganglion cyst, your doctor may perform an imaging
test like an ultrasound or MRI. He or she may also use needle aspiration.
During needle aspiration, your doctor will remove some of the fluid in
the cyst to diagnose it.

How are ganglion cysts treated?

Because ganglion cysts are typically harmless, your doctor may simply recommend
monitoring and waiting. Often, the cysts will go away on their own.

In some cases, your doctor may use a needle to drain fluid from the cyst
and inject a steroid into it. If your cyst is causing pain or symptoms
that limit your hand movement, you may have surgery to completely remove the cyst.