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Types of Cysts and What They Mean

At Village Medical, we understand that discovering a cyst can be worrying. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in different parts of your body, and while most are harmless, some may require treatment. Village Medical providers will give a quick overview of the most common types of cysts our patients come to us about.

We want you to have a better understanding of what cysts are and what treatment options exist.

Epidermoid Cysts


Epidermoid cysts form under the skin from cells producing a protein called keratin.

They usually appear as small, slow-growing lumps under the skin on the face, neck, or body.

Most of the time, these cysts don't need treatment unless they become tender, red, or very noticeable.

Sebaceous Cysts


 Sebaceous cysts occur on the skin and fill with an oily substance from the oil glands. You can find them on the face, neck, or body.

People refer to sebaceous cysts as "epidermoid cysts" interchangeably, but this is incorrect. Sebaceous cysts are less common and originate from the sebaceous glands, which produce the skin's oil (sebum).

You can often leave sebaceous cysts alone unless they grow large, rupture, or become infected - then they may need draining or removal.

Ganglion Cysts


Ganglion cysts swell up near joints and tendons, usually on the hands or wrists. They form from the lubricating fluid of the joints. Most go away on their own eventually. If bothersome, medical professionals can drain them or surgically remove them.

Baker's Cysts


Baker's cysts are fluid-filled lumps that pop up behind the knee. They happen when knee joint swelling bulges out the back of the knee. Treatment involves rest, compression, medication, and draining excess knee fluid buildup.

Ovarian Cysts


Ovarian cysts grow on the ovaries. They are typically harmless follicles that go away each menstrual cycle. But some stick around and may need hormone therapy or surgical removal if they get very large or twist the ovary.

Kidney Cysts


Kidney cysts often don't cause symptoms and only pop up on imaging tests. However, kidney cysts can grow large and cause some pain, and even become infected. If this happens, make an appointment with your doctor to create a treatment plan for kidney cysts.

Simple kidney cysts usually require no treatment. Polycystic kidney disease causes many cysts that can affect kidney function.

Breast Cysts


Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs within breast tissue. They are common and not cancerous but may need draining a needle for testing. Women with repeat breast cysts might take hormones to prevent more cysts.

While most cysts are harmless, any that grow or hurt need examining by your doctor. Quick evaluation and treatment can help manage cysts effectively. We're here to help if you have any concerns.

When Should I Be Worried About a Cyst?


We know discovering a cyst can feel concerning. Try not to panic - most turn out to be harmless. But it's reasonable to have your doctor take a look at it if the cyst:

  • Is rapidly growing or changing in size
  • Is painful or tender
  • Feels firm or solid
  • Becomes red, inflamed, or warm
  • Interferes with normal functioning or range of motion
  • Ruptures, leaks fluid, or bleeds

What Can Happen if a Cyst is Left Untreated?


While some cysts go away on their own, others may lead to problems if not treated. An untreated cyst can potentially:

  • Grow very large, pressing on surrounding organs and tissues
  • Become significantly painful or tender
  • Rupture or burst, resulting in infection
  • Twist or rupture internal reproductive organs like the ovaries
  • Impair normal functioning of the affected area

Having your doctor assess any bothersome cysts means you can take steps to prevent complications down the road.

Can a Cyst Turn into Cancer?


The good news is that most common cysts, like epidermoid, sebaceous, or ganglion cysts, do not become cancerous.

However, there are some exceptions:

  • Ovarian cysts that are not functional follicular cysts may be precancerous or cancerous growths on the ovaries.
  • Pancreatic cysts have a small risk of being precancerous or cancerous.
  • Some breast cysts may require a biopsy to confirm they are benign.

Any rapidly growing or unusual cyst needs evaluation for cancer risk - but rest assured, this is rare with most cysts.

The bottom line - talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about a cyst so they can determine if treatment is necessary. We're here to make sure you get the best care!

Treating Different Types of Cysts


Finding out you have a cyst can be worrying. However, there are several options available if your cyst does need medical care. We will summarize common treatments here so you know what to expect.

  • Observation: For small, harmless cysts, your doctor may recommend just monitoring it over time. You likely won't need immediate treatment.
  • Drainage: Doctors sometimes drain cysts with a needle to remove the built-up fluid. Drainage helps reduce size and discomfort.
  • Medications: Medicines like birth control pills may help prevent recurrent cysts in some cases. Pain relievers can also help manage cyst discomfort.
  • Surgery: Removal of the cyst may be necessary if it is large, painful, or at risk of twisting sensitive structures like the ovaries. Surgery provides a permanent solution.
  • Injection: An injection of medicine into the cyst may help reduce its size in some instances.

The specific treatment will depend on factors like the type of cyst, its location, your symptoms, and your medical history.

Treating Types of Cysts at Village Medical


No matter where a cyst develops or what type it is, our team is here to help. We will take the time to understand your health history, evaluate your symptoms, and recommend the most appropriate steps to either treat your cyst or monitor it.

Please reach out to providers at your local Village Medical if you have any concerns about a cyst. When you do, we can get you the caring, expert care you deserve.