What is Cyst?
A cyst is a sac that may be filled with air, fluid or other material. A cyst can form in any part of the body, including bones, organs and soft tissues. Most cysts are noncancerous (benign), but sometimes cancer can cause a cyst.
Common Causes of Cyst
Cysts are common and can occur anywhere on the body. They are often a result of infection, clogged sebaceous glands, or piercings.
Some other common causes of cysts include:
- tumors
- genetic conditions
- a fault in an organ of a developing embryo
- a defect in the cells
- chronic inflammatory conditions
- blockages of ducts in the body that cause fluids to build up
- a parasite
- an injury that breaks a vessel
In most cases, it is unusual for cysts to cause pain unless they rupture, become infected, or are inflamed.
How to treat Cyst
The treatment options for a cyst will depend on a range of factors, including the type of cyst, where it is, its size, and the degree of discomfort it is causing.
For very large cysts that are causing symptoms, a doctor may recommend surgical removal.
Sometimes, they might drain or aspirate the cyst by inserting a needle or catheter into the cavity. If the cyst is not easily accessible, they may use radiologic imaging to accurately guide the needle or catheter.
Sometimes, a health professional may examine the removed liquid under a microscope to determine whether or not any cancerous cells are present. If they suspect that the cyst is cancerous, they may suggest surgical removal, order a biopsy of the cyst wall, or both.
Many cysts develop as a result of a chronic or underlying medical condition, as may be the case with fibrocystic breast disease or polycystic ovary syndrome. In such cases, the focus of the treatment will be on the medical condition itself, not the cyst.