GANGLION CYST

DEFINITION
Ganglion cysts are noncancerous lumps that most commonly develop
along the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands.
They also may occur in the ankles and feet. Ganglion cysts are
typically round or oval and are filled with a jellylike fluid.
CAUSES
The cause of these cysts is unknown although they may form in the
presence of joint or tendon irritation or mechanical changes. They
occur in patients of all ages.
These cysts may change in size or even disappear completely, and
they may or may not be painful. These cysts are not cancerous and
will not spread to other areas.
SYMPTOMS
The lumps associated with ganglion cysts can be characterized by:
Location. Ganglion cysts most commonly develop along the tendons
or joints of your wrists or hands. The next most common locations are
the ankles and feet. These cysts can occur near other joints as well.
Shape and size. Ganglion cysts are round or oval and usually measure
less than an inch (2.5 centimeters) in diameter. Some are so small
that they can't be felt. The size of a cyst can fluctuate, often getting
larger when you use that joint for repetitive motions.
Pain. Ganglion cysts usually are painless. But if a cyst presses on a
nerve even if the cyst is too small to form a noticeable lump it
can cause pain, tingling, numbness or muscle weakness.
DIAGNOSIS
Trans-illumination test : the light will often pass through these lumps
X-ray
 TREATMENT
Ganglion cysts are often painless, requiring no treatment. Your doctor may
suggest a watch-and-wait approach.
If the cyst is causing pain or interfering with joint movement, then we can do
these :
Immobilization. Because activity can cause the ganglion cyst to get larger, it
may help to temporarily immobilize the area with a brace or splint. As the cyst
shrinks, it may release the pressure on your nerves, relieving pain. Avoid long-
term use of a brace or splint, which can cause the nearby muscles to weaken.
Aspiration. In this procedure, your doctor uses a needle to drain the fluid from
the cyst. The cyst may recur.
Surgery. This may be an option if other approaches haven't worked. During this
procedure, the doctor removes the cyst and the stalk that attaches it to the
joint or tendon. Rarely, the surgery can injure the surrounding nerves, blood
vessels or tendons. And the cyst can recur, even after surgery.
LIFE STYLE & HOME REMEDIES
Analgesic ( ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac)
An old home remedy for a ganglion cyst consisted of "thumping" the
cyst with a heavy object. This isn't a good solution because the force
of the blow can damage surrounding structures in your hand or foot
Also don't try to "pop" the cyst yourself by puncturing it with a
needle. This is unlikely to be effective and can lead to infection.