Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Ganglion Cysts

Author(s):

Ganglion cysts commonly develop along the tendons or joints of the wrists or hands, as well as the ankles and feet.

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are noncancerous lumps that most commonly develop along the tendons or joints of the wrists or hands.

Insight:

Ganglion cysts also may occur in the ankles and feet.
Ganglion cysts are typically round or oval and are filled with a jellylike fluid.
Small ganglion cysts can be pea-sized, whereas larger ones can be around an inch in diameter.
Ganglion cysts can be painful if they press on a nearby nerve. Their location can sometimes interfere with joint movement.
Symptoms may include swelling or pain.
Risk factors may include sex and gender, osteoarthritis history, and history of joint or tendon injury.
Diagnosis includes MRI, physical exam, X-ray, as well as aspiration.
Treatment may include aspiration, immobilization, and possible surgery.

Sources:

Ganglion cyst - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic