What Is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that arises from a joint capsule or tendon sheath. The fluid inside is a thick, jelly-like material similar to synovial joint fluid. Ganglion cysts are benign — not cancerous and do not spread. Common locations include the back of the wrist, palm side of the wrist, base of a finger, and near the fingernail (mucous cyst).
Symptoms
- A visible or palpable lump near a joint or tendon
- Variable size — may fluctuate with activity
- Aching or pain with repetitive wrist use
- Weakness of grip in larger cysts
- Tingling if the cyst compresses a nearby nerve
Treatment Options
Observation
Asymptomatic cysts can be monitored without intervention. Many resolve spontaneously over time.
Aspiration
Draining the cyst fluid with a needle in the office is quick and easy, but recurrence is common — approximately 50% of cysts return.
Surgical Excision
When a cyst is symptomatic, recurrent, or bothersome, surgical removal with its root provides the most reliable long-term result.