Ganglion Cyst

What is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a mass of tissue that is filled with a jelly-like fluid. The word “ganglion” means “knot” and is used to describe the knot-like mass or lump of cells that forms below the surface of the skin.

ganglion cystGanglion cysts are among the most common benign soft-tissue masses. Although they most often occur on the wrist, they also frequently develop on the foot—usually on the top, but elsewhere as well. Ganglion cysts vary in size, may get smaller and larger over time and may even disappear, only to possibly return later.

Signs and Symptoms
A ganglion cyst is associated with one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

• A noticeable lump—often this is the only symptom experienced.
• Tingling or burning, if the cyst is touching a nerve.
• Dull pain or ache, which may indicate the cyst is pressing against a tendon or joint.
• Difficulty wearing shoes due to irritation between the lump and the shoe.

What Causes a Ganglion Cyst?
Ganglion cysts are usually caused by some type of injury. For example, a ganglion cyst might develop after something drops on the foot, if the foot was twisted while walking, or after too much stress was placed on a joint or tendon. For some patients, the trauma that triggers this condition is something they do not recall. Usually the cyst appears soon after the trauma occurs.

Diagnosis
To diagnose a ganglion cyst, the foot and ankle surgeon will perform a thorough examination of the foot. The lump will be visually apparent and, when pressed in a certain way, it should move freely underneath the skin. Sometimes the surgeon will shine a light through the cyst or remove a small amount of fluid from the cyst for evaluation. Occasionally other imaging studies may be used.

Treatment
There are various options for treating a ganglion cyst on the foot.

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