Ganglion cyst
| Ganglion cyst | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Ganglia, synovial cyst, Gideon's disease, Olamide's cyst, Bible cyst, Bible bump |
| Cyst on dorsum of left hand close to the wrist | |
| Specialty | Plastic surgery, orthopedic surgery, hand surgery |
| Symptoms | Small soft bump associated with a joint or tendon sheath |
| Complications | Only with operative treatment |
| Usual onset | Any age |
| Diagnostic method | Typically based on signs |
| Differential diagnosis | Lipoma, extensor tenosynovitis |
| Treatment | Watchful waiting, splinting the affected joint, needle aspiration, surgery |
| Prognosis | Not serious |
| Frequency | ~3 per 10,000 per year (wrist and hand) |
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled bump associated with a joint or tendon sheath. It most often occurs at the back of the wrist, followed by the front of the wrist.
The cause is unknown. The underlying mechanism is believed to involve an outpouching of the synovial membrane. Diagnosis is typically based on examination. The ability to shine through the bump or any past decrease in size supports the diagnosis of the bump as a ganglion cyst. Ganglion cysts are usually obvious upon observation. Medical imaging may be considered on infrequent occasions to rule out another diagnosis.
Treatment is not necessary. Options for treatment include needle aspiration or surgery. About half the time, they resolve on their own. About three per 10,000 people newly develop ganglion of the wrist or hand a year.