Ganglion Cyst/Soft Tissue mass

What is A Soft Tissue mass vs Ganglion Cyst

A soft tissue mass is any lump under the skin. It can originate from fat, tendon, ligament or scar tissue. These lumps or bumps can vary in size and location base on the tissue of origin.

A ganglion cyst specific type of soft tissue mass that is a fluid filled sac that originates from a tendon sheath or joint capsule. It can often be mistaken for other soft tissue masses. A lump typically forms on the surface of the skin. This lump can change in size depending on the amount of fluid that fills that sac at any given time. The fluid within this sac can harden into a gelatinous form .

Causes

The exact causes are usually unknown but typically occur in the setting of trauma, irritation of the tendon or joint from bony prominences and arthritis.

Symptoms

Noticeable lump
Tingling or burning- if the cyst/mass is touching a nerve
Dull ache or pain
Difficulty with show gear

Diagnosis

A thorough physical examination of the foot is important in diagnosis. Typically, the lump is prominent and moves freely underneath the skin. Sometimes, the surgeon will shine a light through the cyst to see if light can pass through indicating that the sac may be fluid filled. X-rays and other advanced imaging may also be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. A sample of the fluid may also be taken for evaluation.

Treatment

Non-surgical

Observation- in cases where there is no pain and does not interfere with walking, the surgeon may decide to carefully watch the mass/cyst over a period of time. Sometimes these cysts go away with time
Shoe modifications
Aspiration and injection- if fluid is present within the mass, the fluid can be drain. Steroid can also be injected into the mass.

Surgical

Surgical Treatment involves removal of the mass/cyst as well as any bony prominences that may have caused the formation of the cyst.