Ganglion
A ganglion cyst, also known as a bible cyst, is a swelling that often appears on or around joints and tendons in the hand or foot. The tissue, called synovium, normally functions to produce lubricating fluid for these areas. A ganglion is a cyst formed by the synovium that is filled with a thick jelly-like fluid.
Causes of Ganglion
The cause of ganglion cysts is not known. Cysts are common and can occur anywhere in the body in people of any age. Sometimes they may be felt as an abnormal or new lump or bump anywhere in the body. One theory suggests that trauma causes the tissue of the joint to break down forming small cysts, which then join into a larger, more obvious mass.
Symptoms of Ganglion
Ganglia can form around any joint, but they are most frequently found in the wrist and ankles. They are usually painless and often barely visible as localized swellings.
The most likely theory involves a flaw in the joint capsule or tendon covering (sheath) that allows the joint tissue to bulge out.
It is usually soft, anywhere from 1-3 cm in diameter (about .4-1.2 inches) and doesn't move.
Most ganglion cysts cause some degree of pain, usually following acute or repetitive trauma, but up to 35% are without symptoms, except for appearance.
The pain is usually nonstop, aching, and made worse by joint motion.
Treatment of Ganglion
With surgery, the recurrence rate is reduced to 5 to 10% if the check valve at the joint capsule is removed. Arthroscopy of the wrist is becoming available as an alternative to open excision of ganglion cysts.
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