Guide To The Common Types Of Cysts

Baker's Cyst

A Baker's cyst occurs when the popliteal space, the space behind the knee, becomes swollen. It is also called a popliteal cyst. This type of cyst can lead to knee pain and stiffness. Individuals with a Baker's cyst tend to experience worsening pain if they fully extend or flex the affected knee or move their knee joint around a lot. The name for this type of cyst comes from Dr. William Morrant Baker, the surgeon who first described this type of cyst.

Women over forty years old are the most likely group to develop a Baker's cyst. Some of the symptoms include pain in the calves and knees plus locking of the joints. This type of cyst often resolves without needing medical treatment. It occurs when swelling and inflammation affects the knee joint, usually because of arthritis or gout.

Learn more about different types of cysts now.

Ganglion Cyst

Ganglion cysts are another type of benign cyst. They occur most often around the joints of an individual’s wrists or elsewhere by their hands. However, they can also develop around the joints and tendons of the feet and ankles. Individuals should expect small ganglion cysts to be the approximate size of a pea. However, larger ones can reach up to one inch in diameter. They are often in the shape of an oval or are round. Most ganglion cysts are filled with fluid that resembles jelly. Thankfully, most of these cysts are not painful, though they can be if they press on a nerve. In most cases, ganglion cysts will disappear without treatment. However, if they cause issues, doctors may recommend surgical removal or cyst drainage.

Reveal more details about the various types of cysts now.