Cyst

What Is A Cyst? What Causes Cysts?

A cyst is a closed sac-like structure - an abnormal pocket of fluid, like a blister - that contains either liquid, gaseous, or semi-solid substances. A cyst is located within a tissue, and can occur anywhere in the body and can vary in size - some are so small they can only be viewed through a microscope, while others may become so big that they displace normal organs.

In anatomy, a cyst can also refer to any normal bag or sac in the body, such as the bladder. In this article, cyst refers to an abnormal sac or pocket in the body that contains either liquid, gaseous or semi-solid substances.

A cyst is not a normal part of the tissue where it is located. It has a distinct membrane and division on nearby tissue - the outer or capsular portion of a cyst is called the cyst wall. If the sac is filled with pus it is not a cyst, it is an abscess.

The English word cyst comes from the Latin word cystis, which came from the Ancient Greek word kystis, meaning "bladder" or "pouch".

What causes cysts?

Cysts can be caused by:

• Tumors
• Genetic conditions
• Infections
• A fault in an organ of a developing embryo
• A defect in the cells
• Chronic inflammatory conditions
• Blockages of ducts in the body which cause a fluid build-up
• A parasite
• Impact injury that breaks a vessel

Benign and malignant cysts

Most cysts are benign and are caused by plugged ducts or other natural body outlets for secretions. However, some cysts may be tumors and are formed inside tumors - these can be potentially malignant. Examples include keratocysts and dermoid cysts.

What are the possible signs and symptoms of a cyst?

Signs and symptoms vary enormously, depending on what type of cyst it is. In most cases the patient becomes aware of an abnormal lump - as is usually the case with cysts of the skin or just below the skin.

A cyst in the mammary glands (breasts) may be noticeable when the breasts are examined by touching them - the lump will be palpable. Breast cysts are often painful.

Some cysts in the brain can cause headaches, as well as other symptoms.

Many internal cysts, such as those in the kidneys or the liver may not have any symptoms and go unnoticed until an imaging scan (MRI scan, CAT scan, ultrasound) detects them.

What is the treatment for a cyst?

Treatment for a cyst will depend on various factors, including the type of cyst, where it is, its size, and the degree of discomfort it is causing.

A very large cyst that causes symptoms can be surgically removed. Sometimes the doctors may decide to drain or aspirate the cyst by inserting a needle or catheter into the cavity. If the cyst is not easily accessible, drainage or aspiration is often done with the help of radiologic imaging so that the doctor can accurately guide the needle/catheter into the target area. Learn More