Cysts are common lumps or bumps on the body. While many are benign and resolve without intervention, knowing when to seek medical evaluation is important.
Understanding Cysts
A cyst is a sac-like pocket of tissue that can form in various parts of the body, including the skin, organs, or bones. These sacs typically contain fluid, air, pus, or other materials. Cysts differ from solid tumors as they possess a distinct membrane or wall separating them from surrounding tissues. They can vary significantly in size, from microscopic to large enough to displace internal organs. Most cysts are non-cancerous and generally do not pose a serious health risk.
Key Indicators for Medical Attention
A cyst warrants a doctor’s visit if it rapidly increases in size or changes shape or color. Cysts that become painful or tender to the touch, especially if persistent or worsening, also indicate a need for medical assessment.
Signs of infection are another important indicator. These include redness, warmth, or swelling around the cyst, as well as the presence of pus or foul-smelling discharge. A fever accompanying these symptoms indicates an infection requiring immediate attention. If a cyst ruptures, causing increased pain, swelling, or discharge, medical consultation is advised to prevent complications.
Any cyst that interferes with normal bodily function, such as limiting movement if it is near a joint, should be examined. For example, cysts on fingers or toes might become irritated due to regular movement and friction. Any new or unusual lump or bump, particularly if you have a personal or family history of cancer, should be checked by a healthcare professional to rule out malignancy.
What to Expect During a Doctor’s Visit
A doctor’s visit for a cyst typically begins with a physical examination. The doctor will assess the cyst’s size, location, and overall appearance, and ask about its onset, any changes, and associated symptoms. Providing details about when you first noticed the cyst and how it has evolved can help the doctor make an informed assessment.
Diagnostic steps may follow the initial examination, especially if the cyst is deep, difficult to distinguish, or if there is concern about its nature. Imaging tests like an ultrasound can determine if a lump is fluid-filled or solid, providing information about its composition and location. For more detailed imaging, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scan may be used, particularly for cysts located deeper within the body or organs like the pancreas or ovaries.
In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to analyze a tissue sample from the cyst, which confirms the diagnosis and rules out cancerous cells. This can involve fine-needle aspiration, where fluid is removed for examination, or surgical removal of part or all of the cyst for laboratory analysis. Treatment approaches vary depending on the cyst’s characteristics and may include observation, drainage, steroid injections to reduce inflammation, or surgical removal to prevent recurrence.
Living With and Monitoring Cysts
If a cyst is diagnosed as benign and does not require immediate treatment, ongoing monitoring is often recommended. This involves routinely observing the cyst for changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms like pain or discomfort. Maintaining a record of these observations can be helpful for future medical consultations.
Many cysts are harmless and may resolve on their own over time. However, if new symptoms develop or existing ones worsen, seeking re-evaluation from a healthcare professional is advised. Regular check-ups can ensure that any changes are promptly addressed and provide reassurance regarding the cyst’s nature.