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UNDERSTANDING GANGLION CYSTS (GANGLION)
  1. What is a ganglion cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a lump that occurs on the palm, back of the hand, such as the wrist, fingers, or ankle. It is the most common benign tumor in our bodies. It appears as a swelling within the lining surrounding the joints and can be felt as a bump under the skin. Inside, it is filled with joint fluid.

They range in size from that of a pea to a small chestnut. The more you use your hand, the larger it can become, and vice versa. Ganglion cysts are more common in women and in individuals aged 10 to 30.

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  1. Causes of ganglion cysts

The cause of ganglion cysts is still not fully understood. However, the mechanism involves the cells of the lining surrounding tendons and joints undergoing degenerative changes and producing mucus, which gradually forms a lump.

 

  1. Symptoms of ganglion cysts

A lump can be felt, but no other symptoms are present.

As the size of the cyst increases, you may experience discomfort, as if the surrounding tissues are being compressed during joint movement. If you have a lump on the back of your hand or wrist, bending it toward the palm can make the cyst more prominent and firm, leading to discomfort. If the cyst is located in the finger joints, you may feel pain when gripping.

Specific symptoms can vary based on the cyst’s location and size. If the cyst is near blood vessels, you might notice a stronger pulse and experience mild pain.

  

  1. How should ganglion cysts be diagnosed?

Cysts are diagnosed based on the location of the lump, its mobility, and the sensation upon palpation. Diagnosis can also be confirmed by observing the clear, jelly-like fluid extracted with a syringe. However, aspirating the fluid with a syringe only provides temporary relief, as the cyst typically regrows within 1 to 2 days. Therefore, this method is not considered a treatment. Cysts may also arise from other factors, so X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs may be necessary to identify the underlying cause.

  

  1. How should ganglion cysts be treated?

If painless, ganglion cysts are usually treated conservatively, with a note to limit excessive hand activity.

If the lump is large or painful, joint fluid within the cyst may be aspirated. However, since the sac remains, the likelihood of recurrence is very high. If this approach is ineffective, or if the pain worsens, surgery may be required to remove the sac and part of the joint membrane causing the cyst.

Ganglion cysts themselves are not dangerous and rarely cause discomfort. Therefore, sometimes no treatment is needed, and the cyst may rupture and disappear on its own.

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