Ganglion Cyst Flashcards
1
Q
Where does a ganglion cyst most commonly occur?
A
- Dorsal wrist, collar wrist, DIP joint of finger and tendon sheath
*most common soft tissue tumor of hand/wrist
2
Q
Where does a ganglion cyst originate from?
A
- The wrist/finger joint or from a tendon sheath
*synovial fluid collects in outpouchings/pockets and forms the cysts
*if the cyst moves its connected to the tendon
*if the cyst stays its connected to the joint
3
Q
What is the presentation of a ganglion cyst?
A
- Insidious onset (just noticed a lump one day)
- May or may not complain of pain
- if painful, wll be exacerbated with wrist flexion or extension
4
Q
What will be found with the PE?
A
- Tender to palpation
- Decreased ROM
- Decreased muscle strength
- May vary in size from visit to visit or with wrist position
- May transilluminate
*Fluid will glow
*soft tissue wont glow
5
Q
What are some diagnostic test?
A
Usually not needed
1. Radiographs: underlying bony abnormality
2. MRI: further evaluation of the mass
3. Ultrasound: may confirm the diagnosis when ganglions are very small
6
Q
What are some complications of a ganglion cyst?
A
- Numbness/tingling due to pressure on nerves
- May contribute to tendinitis/injury due to proximity/pressure
- Vascular thrombosis
*malignant by position
7
Q
What is the prognosis of a ganglion cyst
A
- Excellent
*higher recurrence with aspiration
8
Q
What is the treatment/management for a ganglion cyst?
A
- Observation most require no treatment
- DO NOT smash or hit
*firm pressure is okay
9
Q
When is aspiration of a cyst okay?
A
- Depends on the size
*results also depend on the size and viscosity
*can be followed by a cortisone injection to rupture the cyst wall
*aspiration will leave the cyst wall behind and intact so it is more likely to recut
10
Q
What is the definitive treatment of a ganglion cyst?
A
Surgical excision
*fluid and cyst wall is removed
*indicated if the cyst causes pain, limiting or cosmetic reasons
