About all

Large cyst on back: Pictures, Causes, Types, Treatments, and Prevention

Содержание

Pictures, Causes, Types, Treatments, and Prevention

A cyst is a small pocket of tissue filled with air, fluid or other substances. Cyst maybe caused by genetics, inflammation, infection or other issues. They are usually benign but may need treatment if complications arise.

A cyst is a sac-like pocket of membranous tissue that contains fluid, air, or other substances. Cysts can grow almost anywhere in your body or under your skin.

There are many types of cysts. Most cysts are benign, or noncancerous.

Whether a cyst needs treatment depends on a number of factors, including:

  • the type of cyst
  • the location of the cyst
  • if the cyst is causing pain or discomfort
  • whether the cyst is inflamed or infected

If you’re not sure if you have a skin condition, you can take a picture and send it to an online dermatologist.

Cysts can vary in appearance depending on their type and location. Here are 11 types of cysts.

Warning: Graphic images ahead.

Epidermoid cyst

  • An epidermoid cyst is a small, slow growing, benign cyst most commonly found on the face, head, neck, back, or genitals.
  • It’s usually caused by a buildup of keratin under the skin.
  • It looks like a skin-colored, tan, or yellowish bump filled with thick material.
  • It may become swollen, red, or painful if it’s inflamed or infected.

Read more about epidermoid cysts.

Sebaceous cyst

Share on PinterestPhotography courtesy of Klaus D. Peter, Wiehl, Germany/Wikimedia Commons

  • A sebaceous cyst is found on the face, neck, or torso.
  • It’s usually caused by trauma or damage to the sebaceous glands, such as from cuts or surgical wounds.
  • A large cyst may cause pressure and pain.
  • It’s noncancerous and very slow growing.

Read more about sebaceous cysts.

Breast cyst

Share on PinterestPhotography courtesy of Nevit Dilmen/Wikimedia Commons

  • Most breast lumps (such as cysts) are noncancerous, but there are many possible causes for a lump in your breast.
  • Instead of performing a breast self-exam, it’s important to be familiar with how your breasts typically feel so you’re aware of changes. This way, you’re more likely to notice changes right away.
  • You should make an appointment to see a healthcare professional if:
    • you discover a new lump
    • an area of your breast is noticeably different than the rest
    • a lump changes or grows larger
    • you notice unexpected discharge from the nipple
    • you have an inverted nipple, and it wasn’t always inverted

Read more about breast lumps.

Ganglion cyst

  • A ganglion cyst is a round, gel-filled lump of tissue that usually appears along tendons or joints, especially in the hands, wrists, ankles, and feet.
  • Fluid accumulation can occur due to injury, trauma, or overuse, but often the cause is unknown.
  • A ganglion cyst is common, harmless, and doesn’t cause pain or problems unless it grows and puts pressure on other structures.

Read more about ganglion cysts.

Pilonidal cyst

  • A pilonidal cyst is a common skin condition that forms in the cleft at the top of the buttocks. It typically occurs after puberty.
  • It’s believed to be caused by a combination of changing hormones, hair growth, and friction from clothes or from spending a long time sitting.
  • It consists of a small hole or tunnel in the skin that may become infected and fill with fluid or pus.
  • Signs of an infection include:
    • pain when sitting or standing
    • red or sore skin around the area
    • pus or blood draining from the abscess, causing a foul odor
    • swelling of the cyst
    • hair protruding from the lesion

Read more about pilonidal cysts.

Ovarian cyst

  • Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on one or both of the ovaries.
  • They may develop as a normal part of the reproductive cycle or be pathologic.
  • They may be asymptomatic or painful.
  • Symptoms include:
    • abdominal bloating or swelling
    • painful bowel movements
    • pelvic pain before or during the menstrual cycle
    • painful intercourse
    • pain in the lower back or thighs
    • breast tenderness
    • nausea
    • vomiting
  • Severe symptoms such as sudden, sharp pelvic pain, fever, faintness, or dizziness are signs of cyst rupture or ovarian torsion.

Read more about ovarian cysts.

Baker’s (popliteal) cyst

  • A Baker’s cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that causes a lump at the back of the knee.
  • This condition is due to a problem that affects the knee joint, such as arthritis, inflammation from repetitive stress, or a cartilage injury.
  • Symptoms include:
    • mild to severe pain
    • tightness
    • limited range of motion
    • swelling behind the knee
    • bruising on the knee and calf
    • rupturing of the cyst
  • A Baker’s cyst often doesn’t need treatment and will go away on its own.

Read more about Baker’s cysts.

Pilar cyst

  • A pilar cyst is a noncancerous, skin-colored, round bump that develops under the surface of the skin. It’s usually located on the scalp.
  • This type of cyst is caused by protein buildup in a hair follicle.
  • It’s painless, firm, smooth, and slow growing.

Read more about pilar cysts.

Mucous cyst

  • A mucous cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that occurs on the lip or the mouth.
  • It develops when the mouth’s salivary glands become plugged with mucus.
  • It’s commonly caused by trauma to the oral cavity, such as lip biting, piercings, and salivary gland disruption.
  • Mucous cysts are small, soft nodules that are pinkish or bluish.

Read more about mucous cysts.

Branchial cleft cyst

Photography by BigBill58/Wikimedia Commons

  • A branchial cleft cyst is a type of developmental irregularity in which a lump develops on one or both sides of the neck or below the collarbone.
  • It occurs during embryonic development when tissues in the neck and collarbone, or branchial cleft, develop differently.
  • In most cases, a branchial cleft cyst isn’t dangerous. However, it may cause skin irritation, skin infection, or — in very rare adult cases — cancer.
  • Symptoms in children include:
    • a dimple, lump, or skin tag on the neck, upper shoulder, or slightly below the collarbone
    • fluid draining from the neck
  • Children and adults may experience swelling or tenderness that usually occurs with an upper respiratory infection.

Read more about branchial cleft cysts.

Perineural (Tarlov) cyst

  • A perineural cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on the spine.
  • Causes are unknown, but it may result from back trauma. Types of trauma associated with this cyst include falls, injuries, and heavy exertion.
  • Symptoms are rare. In these cases, it may cause pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs.

Read more about perineural cysts.

A pseudocyst shares some of the characteristics of a cyst, but the bump doesn’t have its own lining. Here are three types of pseudocysts.

Folliculitis (ingrown hair cyst)

  • Folliculitis describes a category of skin conditions that cause inflammation in a hair follicle and are usually infectious.
  • Ingrown hair cysts are a type of folliculitis. They start off as hairs that grow down or sideways instead of out, becoming ingrown.
  • Folliculitis is common among people who shave, wax, or use other methods to remove hair.
  • Folliculitis appears as pimple-like bumps under the skin that may be red, white, or yellow, with or without a central visible hair.
  • Bumps that appear near an ingrown hair are more likely to be pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps) than ingrown hair cysts.
  • Ingrown hair cysts may become infected and appear red, warm, and tender to the touch.

Read more about ingrown hair cysts.

Chalazion

  • A chalazion is a small, usually painless lump or swelling on your upper or lower eyelid.
  • It’s caused by a blocked meibomian gland. The meibomian gland is a type of oil gland.
  • It may be red, swollen, and painful if an infection is present.

Read more about chalazia.

Cystic acne

  • Cystic acne is the most severe type of acne, and it develops when bumps form deep underneath your skin.
  • It can result from a combination of hormone changes, bacteria, oil, and dry skin cells that get trapped in your pores.
  • Cystic acne may occur on the face, chest, neck, back, and arms. Large, painful, pus-filled bumps and nodules may form, rupture, and leave scars. They may appear red or skin-colored, depending on your skin tone.

Read more about cystic acne.

A cyst can appear as a bump on your skin. It may also feel like a small lump if it’s growing just under your skin.

Some cysts grow deep inside your body where you can’t feel them. However, they may cause or be related to other symptoms.

For example, ovarian cysts, such as those that result from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may cause problems with ovarian and reproductive function. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), which causes cysts to form in the kidney, can adversely affect kidney function.

Cysts usually grow slowly and have a smooth surface. They can be tiny or very large.

Most cysts aren’t painful. They usually don’t cause problems unless they’re:

  • infected
  • very large
  • impinging on a nerve or blood vessel
  • growing in a sensitive area
  • affecting the function of an organ

Cysts and pseudocysts form for different reasons. They can be caused by:

  • infections
  • inherited diseases
  • genetics
  • chronic inflammation
  • blockages in ducts

The exact cause depends on the type of cyst or pseudocyst.

There are hundreds of different types of cysts and pseudocysts. They can grow almost anywhere in your body.

Some cysts occur as part of another condition, such as PCOS or PKD. Some of the more common types of cysts and pseudocysts include the following:

Epidermoid cyst

These are small, benign bumps filled with the protein keratin. If you have trauma around a hair follicle within the skin, an epidermoid cyst may occur.

If part of the top layer of your skin, called the epidermis, grows deeper instead of moving outward toward the surface to eventually be shed off, an epidermoid cyst will have a chance to form.

In rare cases, epidermoid cysts can be caused by an inherited condition called Gardner’s syndrome.

Sebaceous cyst

Sebaceous cysts fill with sebum and are less common than epidermoid cysts. They often form within sebaceous glands, which are part of the skin and hair follicles.

Sebaceous glands make oil for your skin and hair. Ruptured or blocked sebaceous glands can lead to sebaceous cysts.

Breast cyst

Benign cysts can develop in your breasts when fluid collects near your breast glands. They can cause pain or tenderness in the affected area.

They commonly occur in female breast tissue in those in their 30s and 40s.

Ganglion cyst

These benign cysts usually form near the joint areas of your wrist or hand. However, they can also develop in your feet or ankle areas. The reason they form isn’t known.

Ganglion cysts tend to occur along a tendon sheath near a joint. They’re more common in women than in men.

Pilonidal cyst

Pilonidal cysts form near the top part of the buttocks. They’re usually filled with skin debris, body oils, hair, and other matter.

They occur more often in men than in women. They can develop when loose hairs become embedded in your skin.

Chronic infections in these cysts might increase your risk of a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. If you have these chronic infections, learn the symptoms of skin cancer so it can be treated early.

Ovarian cyst

Ovarian cysts often form when the follicle that normally releases an egg doesn’t open. This causes fluid to build up and form a cyst.

Another common type of ovarian cyst occurs after the follicle releases the egg and improperly recloses and collects fluid.

Ovarian cysts occur most often in those of menstrual age. They’re usually found during pelvic exams.

Ovarian cysts are associated with an increased risk of cancer when they occur after menopause.

Baker’s (popliteal) cyst

A Baker’s cyst, also known as a popliteal cyst, is a fluid-filled cyst that forms at the back of the knee.

These cysts are usually caused by problems with the knee, such as injury or arthritis. Mobility can be limited and painful with a Baker’s cyst.

Physical therapy, fluid draining, and medication can all be used to help treat a Baker’s cyst.

Pilar cyst

Pilar cysts are skin-colored, benign lumps that form on the skin’s surface. They’re not cancerous, but they can grow to a size that can be uncomfortable.

Removal is typically not necessary, but they can be removed for cosmetic purposes.

Mucous cyst

A mucous cyst is a fluid-filled lump that forms on the lip or around the mouth when the salivary glands become plugged with mucus. The most common causes of mucous cysts include:

  • lip or cheek biting
  • lip piercings
  • rupture of the salivary gland
  • improper dental hygiene

Mucous cysts will often go away on their own. However, if you have recurring or frequent mucous cysts, you may need medical treatment.

Branchial cleft cyst

Branchial cleft cysts are a type of developmental irregularity that causes a lump on an infant’s neck or below the collarbone. This cyst can look like a large skin tag.

Healthcare professionals usually recommend surgical removal to prevent future infection.

Perineural (Tarlov) cyst

A perineural cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on the spine.

Most people won’t have symptoms, so they won’t need treatment. If you do have symptoms, draining the fluid can help to relieve them.

Chalazion

Chalazia are benign pseudocysts that occur on your eyelids when the duct of the meibomian gland, an oil gland, is blocked.

These pseudocysts can cause tenderness, blurred vision, and painful swelling. If they get too big, they can cause vision problems.

Cystic acne

Cystic acne results from a combination of bacteria, oil, and dead skin clogging the pores. It’s the most severe type of acne, but it usually improves with age.

Cystic acne can look like large, pus-filled boils on the skin. It can also be painful to the touch.

If you believe you may have cystic acne, your dermatologist can prescribe medications to help treat it.

Folliculitis (ingrown hair cyst)

Folliculitis is an inflammatory and usually infectious condition. It can form when a hair grows into the skin and a pseudocyst forms near it.

These pseudocysts are often seen in people who use hair removal methods like shaving or waxing. Ingrown hair cysts are an example of folliculitis.

While ingrown hair cysts are possible, if you have bumps that appear near ingrown hairs, there’s a good chance that they’re actually razor bumps instead.

Razor bumps are also known as pseudofolliculitis barbae, which is a type of pseudofolliculitis. Unlike folliculitis, pseudofolliculitis isn’t usually infectious.

Most of the time, medical care isn’t needed to treat folliculitis or razor bumps. However, see a healthcare professional if you suspect the ingrown hair cyst or razor bump is infected.

Schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional if your cyst becomes very painful or inflamed. This could be a sign of a rupture or an infection.

They should check your cyst even if it isn’t causing any pain or other problems. Differences in these growths can be a symptom of cancer. A healthcare professional may want to remove a tissue sample for testing.

You should never try to squeeze or pop a cyst or pseudocyst yourself. This can lead to infection.

In some cases, they improve on their own. Putting a warm compress on a cyst can speed up the healing process by helping it drain.

In other cases, medical care is required.

Medical care

Common methods of medical treatment for cysts include a healthcare professional:

  • using a needle to drain fluids and other matter from the cyst
  • giving you medications, such as a corticosteroid injection, to reduce inflammation in the cyst
  • performing surgical removal of the cyst, which may be done if draining doesn’t work or if you have an internal cyst that’s hard to reach and requires treatment

If you’re concerned about your cyst and don’t have an established relationship with a healthcare professional, you can view doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

Benign cysts and pseudocysts usually don’t cause long-term problems. Sometimes they even go away on their own.

Cysts can refill after being drained. If you have a cyst that continues to refill, you may want to consider having it surgically removed.

If you have cancerous cysts, your healthcare professional will discuss treatment with you. The outlook will vary depending on the type of cancer involved.

Most types of cysts and pseudocysts can’t be prevented. However, there are a few exceptions.

Those prone to ovarian cysts may be able to prevent new cysts from forming by using hormonal contraceptives.

You can prevent pilonidal cysts from forming by keeping the skin in the affected area clean and dry. Getting up every so often instead of sitting for a long time can also help prevent these cysts.

Cleaning your eyelid near the eyelash line with a gentle cleanser can help keep the oil ducts from becoming blocked. This may help prevent chalazia.

Read this article in Spanish.

Epidermoid Cyst: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatments

Epidermoid Cyst: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatments

  • Health Conditions
    • Featured
      • Breast Cancer
      • IBD
      • Migraine
      • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
      • Rheumatoid Arthritis
      • Type 2 Diabetes
    • Articles
      • Acid Reflux
      • ADHD
      • Allergies
      • Alzheimer’s & Dementia
      • Bipolar Disorder
      • Cancer
      • Crohn’s Disease
      • Chronic Pain
      • Cold & Flu
      • COPD
      • Depression
      • Fibromyalgia
      • Heart Disease
      • High Cholesterol
      • HIV
      • Hypertension
      • IPF
      • Osteoarthritis
      • Psoriasis
      • Skin Disorders and Care
      • STDs
  • Discover
    • Wellness Topics
      • Nutrition
      • Fitness
      • Skin Care
      • Sexual Health
      • Women’s Health
      • Mental Well-Being
      • Sleep
    • Product Reviews
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Sleep
      • Mental Health
      • Nutrition
      • At-Home Testing
      • CBD
      • Men’s Health
    • Original Series
      • Fresh Food Fast
      • Diagnosis Diaries
      • You’re Not Alone
      • Present Tense
    • Video Series
      • Youth in Focus
      • Healthy Harvest
      • No More Silence
      • Future of Health
  • Plan
    • Health Challenges
      • Mindful Eating
      • Sugar Savvy
      • Move Your Body
      • Gut Health
      • Mood Foods
      • Align Your Spine
    • Find Care
      • Primary Care
      • Mental Health
      • OB-GYN
      • Dermatologists
      • Neurologists
      • Cardiologists
      • Orthopedists
    • Lifestyle Quizzes
      • Weight Management
      • Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
      • Are You a Workaholic?
      • How Well Do You Sleep?
    • Tools & Resources
      • Health News
      • Find a Diet
      • Find Healthy Snacks
      • Drugs A-Z
      • Health A-Z
  • Connect
      • Breast Cancer
      • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
      • Psoriatic Arthritis
      • Migraine
      • Multiple Sclerosis
      • Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Owen Kramer, M. D. — By Amber Erickson Gabbey — Updated on February 4, 2020

Epidermoid cysts are small, noncancerous lumps that develop under the skin. They are typically painless and do not lead to complications.

Epidermoid cysts are often found on the head, neck, back, or genitals. They range in size from very small (millimeters) to inches across. They look like a small bump, and the overlying skin can be skin-colored, whitish, or yellowish in color.

They’re filled with cheesy-like, white keratin debris. They’re typically painless. Although, they can become inflamed and irritated. They don’t require removal unless bothersome or the diagnosis is in question.

Buildup of trapped keratin usually causes epidermoid cysts. Keratin is a protein that occurs naturally in skin cells. Cysts develop when the protein is trapped below the skin because of disruption to the skin or to a hair follicle.

These cysts may develop for a number of reasons, but trauma to the skin is typically thought to be the main cause. When numerous, an underlying genetic disorder such as Gardner syndrome may be the cause.

To diagnose epidermoid cysts, your healthcare provider will examine the bump and surrounding skin, as well as request your medical history. They’ll ask for details on how long the bump has been present and whether it has changed over time.

Healthcare providers can usually diagnose an epidermoid cyst by examination only, but sometimes an ultrasound or a referral to a dermatologist is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Epidermoid cysts typically don’t go away completely on their own, although they may shrink to an unnoticeable size and then grow again. Thus, a dermatologist’s surgical intervention is needed to resolve the condition.

Since epidermoid cysts aren’t dangerous, they don’t pose a health risk. Many are never treated.

If the cyst becomes red, swollen, or painful, changes in size or character, or becomes infected, treatment may be desired. In such cases, treatment options typically include antibiotics. Sometimes the cyst may also be drained or injected with a steroid solution.

If you want complete resolution of the cyst, you’ll typically need to have it surgically removed. Usually, this is delayed to a later date if the cyst is currently inflamed.

In almost all cases, epidermoid cysts cause no long-term problems, although they can be associated with genetic diseases that may have medical consequences.

Squeezing out the contents of the cyst on your own can lead to inflammation and/or infection, so it’s best to leave the cyst alone. It can also lead to scarring around the cyst, which can make removal very difficult and result in larger surgical scars.

Once a cyst is drained, it’s very possible that the cyst will grow back. If there’s any significant change in a cyst, it’s recommended that you see your healthcare provider.

Last medically reviewed on February 4, 2020

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Hoang VT, et al. (2019). Overview of epidermoid cyst. DOI:
    10.1016/j.ejro.2019.08.003
  • Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Epidermoid cysts (sebaceous cysts).
    mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sebaceous-cysts/symptoms-causes/syc-20352701
  • Oakley A. (2016). Cutaneous cysts and pseudocysts.
    dermnetnz.org/topics/cutaneous-cysts-and-pseudocysts/
  • Wollina U, et al. (2018). Epidermoid cysts: A wide spectrum of clinical presentation and successful treatment by surgery: A retrospective 10-year analysis and literature review. DOI:
    10.3889/oamjms.2018.027

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Feb 4, 2020

Written By

Amber Erickson Gabbey

Edited By

Phil Riches

Medically Reviewed By

Owen Kramer, MD

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Owen Kramer, M. D. — By Amber Erickson Gabbey — Updated on February 4, 2020

Read this next

  • Sebaceous Cyst: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and More

    Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP

    Sebaceous cysts are common, noncancerous cysts of the skin. Learn more about this type of cyst here.

    READ MORE

  • What’s the Difference Between Cysts and Tumors?

    Medically reviewed by Yamini Ranchod, Ph.D., M.S.

    Notice an unusual lump? Learn how to tell the difference between a cyst and a tumor, as well as the cancer risk associated with each.

    READ MORE

  • What’s Causing This Lump Under My Chin?

    Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M.D.

    A lump under the chin is most commonly caused by infection. We’ll explain why this happens, other possible causes, and when you should see a doctor.

    READ MORE

  • What Causes Excessive Scrotal Sweating, and How Can I Treat It?

    If excessive testicular sweating is interfering with your day-to-day life, these treatments may help. Learn about the causes of excessive testicular…

    READ MORE

  • How to Remove Scars on Legs

    Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP

    Here are simple tips to reduce the appearance of scars. Whether you want to know how to get rid of scars on your legs or other areas, here’s what to…

    READ MORE

  • What Causes a Melasma Mustache and How to Treat It

    Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD

    Melasma is a skin condition that causes grayish-brown patches to appear, mostly on the face. When it appears on the upper lip, it’s referred to as a…

    READ MORE

  • Is it Possible for Humans to Get Mange?

    Mange is commonly seen in animals, but humans can develop this skin condition as well.

    READ MORE

  • Is There a Lipoma Cure?

    Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP

    Lipomas are slow growing soft masses of fat cells that are typically found between the skin and underlying muscle in the neck, shoulders, and back…

    READ MORE

  • Treating Ingrown Hair on Your Scalp

    Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. D., MPH

    Ingrown hairs on your scalp sometimes remain under the skin growing sideways inside the hair follicle. We’ll explore the many things you can do to…

    READ MORE

  • How to Prevent Ingrown Hair on the Legs

    Medically reviewed by Peggy Pletcher, M.S., R.D., L.D., CDE

    If you frequently get ingrown hair on the legs, these are some of the best products to try.

    READ MORE

Spinal cyst in the lumbosacral region – symptoms, causes, treatment

This disease is treated by a neurologist.

Make an appointment

Share:

A cyst in the spine is a rare pathology characterized by the appearance of a neoplasm with liquid hemorrhagic or cerebrospinal fluid contents. With a small size, it is asymptomatic, it is detected by chance during MRI diagnostics. Large cysts provoke compression of the nerve roots, blood vessels, which leads to the appearance of chronic pain, circulatory disorders. A vertebrologist and a neurologist are engaged in conservative treatment, and a neurosurgeon is involved in surgical treatment.

CMRT specialist tells

Bulatsky S.O.

Orthopedist • Traumatologist • experience 16 years

Publication date: July 16, 2021

Verification date: January 19, 2023

All facts have been verified by a doctor.

Contents of the article

    Causes

    Symptoms

    Classification and types of spinal cysts

    How to diagnose

    Research in CMRT clinics

    Which doctor to contact

    Mamaeva Lidia Semyonovna

    Neurologist • Reflexologist • Physiotherapist • Hirudotherapist
    experience 48 years

    Konovalova Galina Nikolaevna

    Neurologist
    experience 44 years

    Linkorov Yury Anatolyevich

    Neurologist
    experience 42 years

    Charin Yury Konstantinovich

    Orthopedist • Traumatologist • Vertebrologist
    experience 34 years

    Kuznetsova Elena Nikolaevna

    Neurologist
    experience 32 years

    Samarin Oleg Vladimirovich

    Orthopedist • Traumatologist • Vertebrologist
    experience 24 years

    Yan Anzhela Aleksandrovna

    Neurologist • Reflexologist
    experience 23 years

    Kareva Tatyana Nikolaevna

    Neurologist
    experience 22 years

    Ismailova Elvira Tagirovna

    Neurologist
    experience 20 years

    Agumava Nino Mazharaevna

    Neurologist
    experience 19 years

    Lysikova Tatyana Gennadievna

    Neurologist • Physiotherapist
    experience 19 years

    Bachina Natalya Iosifovna

    Neurologist
    experience 19 years

    Repryntseva Svetlana Nikolaevna

    Neurologist
    experience 18 years

    Lisin Valery Igorevich

    Neurologist
    experience 15 years

    Shishkin Alexander Vyacheslavovich

    Neurologist • Chiropractor
    experience 13 years

    Dorofeeva Maria Sergeevna

    Neurologist
    experience 11 years

    Filippenko Anton Olegovich

    Neurologist • Reflexologist
    experience 11 years

    Stepanov Vladimir Vladimirovich

    Orthopedist • Traumatologist • Vertebrologist
    experience 10 years

    Amagova Tamila Magomedovna

    Neurologist
    experience 9 years

    Miropolsky Ilya Andreevich

    Neurologist
    experience 9 years

    Suleymanov Kurban Abbas-Ogly

    Neurologist
    experience 9 years

    Satieva Marina Garunovna

    Neurologist
    experience 7 years

    How to treat a spinal cyst

    Popular treatments

    Rehabilitation after treatment

    Consequences

    Prevention

    Treatment and rehabilitation in CMRC clinics

    More about clinic services

    Did you like the article?

    Subscribe so you don’t miss the next one and get a unique gift from CMDT.

    e-mail

    By clicking on the button, I accept the agreement for the processing of my data.


    Article checked

    Moskaleva V.V.

    Editor • Journalist • Experience 10 years

    We publish only verified information

    The materials posted on the site are written by the authors with
    medical education and specialists of the company CMRT

    More details

    +7 (812) 748-59-05

    Sign up for diagnostics

    Personal Area

    Sign up at CMRT

    Need a preliminary consultation? Leave your details, we will call you back and answer all
    questions

    Treatment of a spinal cyst in Moscow at the Dikul clinic: prices, appointments

    A spinal cyst is a cavity filled with fluid (hemorrhagic, cerebrospinal fluid, etc.). Cystic formations in the spine are a fairly rare pathology, and the cyst can be located in any of its departments (from the cervical to the lumbosacral). A spinal cyst may be asymptomatic and can often be diagnosed incidentally or present with only chronic dull pain. Treatment of a spinal cyst depends on the location of the cyst, its size, and the degree of impact on nearby structures.

    Varieties of spinal cysts

    By origin, spinal cysts are divided into:
    • congenital,
    • purchased.
    Depending on the morphological features (wall structure), the cyst can be:
    • true (there is an epithelial lining inside the cystic formation)
    • false (no epithelial lining)
    • The size, location and shape of a spinal cyst varies depending on the genesis of the formation.

      Spinal cysts are subdivided into morphological types:
    • Ganglionic. Such a formation does not have a synovial membrane inside the cavity layer of endothelial cells. As the tumor grows, it gradually separates from the bone.
    • Periarticular cyst.

    Periarticular cyst of the spine is formed in the area of ​​the intervertebral (facet) joints. Often formed due to trauma or degenerative disorders (in older people). Most often, it is formed in the facet joints of the lumbar and thoracic spine. Once formed, the periarticular cyst extends beyond the facet joint cavity. Periarticular cyst of the spine is the cause of radicular syndrome in almost 1% of cases. Depending on the presence of synovial epithelium, the periarticular cyst is divided into: ganglionic and synovial.

    Perineural cyst of the spine.

    Perineural cyst of the spine is found in almost 7% of all cystic formations. Often this cyst has a congenital origin, due to a violation of the development of the spine in the embryonic period – in the lumen of the spinal canal, there is some protrusion of the spinal cord. If this is a small protrusion, then it does not manifest itself clinically. If the protrusion is large, then compression of the spinal nerves occurs with the corresponding symptoms, which can appear already in childhood.

    Aneurysmal cyst.

    An aneurysmal cyst of the spine is a cavity formation inside the bone tissue of the vertebra, which gradually increases and is filled with venous blood. This serious pathology is quite rare, associated with tumor-like diseases and often leads to severe vertebral fractures. The cyst develops more often in childhood, mainly in girls. An aneurysmal cyst is usually caused by trauma.

    Arachnoid cyst. Arachnoid cyst of the spine (Tarlov’s cyst) is a cavity formation, the walls of which are lined with the arachnoid membrane of the spinal cord. With dimensions of more than 15 mm, it can have a compressive effect on the nerve roots and spinal cord, which will manifest itself with characteristic symptoms.

    Spinal cerebrospinal fluid cyst

    Spinal cerebrospinal fluid cyst is a cavity that contains cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid that circulates in the space of the spinal cord. Clinically, a CSF cyst will manifest itself depending on the level of its location in the spine, and neurological deficit below the level of cyst localization.

    Cysts in the lumbar and sacral region. With small sizes, they do not manifest themselves clinically. With an increase in size, symptoms and a functional neurological deficit occur, depending on which root is compressed.

    Causes

    Causes of formation of spinal cysts are diverse:
    • For congenital cysts of the spine – disorders in the development of tissues in the fetus.
    For acquired tumors:
    • degenerative-dystrophic processes in the tissues of the spine,
    • spinal injury (bruises, fractures),
    • excessive, disproportionate loads on motor segments (including those caused by the type of activity),
    • sedentary lifestyle, which leads to the development of dystrophic changes in the tissues of the spine,
    • bleeding in the tissues of the spine,
    • parasitic injury (eg echinococcosis).

    Symptoms

    The symptoms of spinal cysts depend on the cause, size and location. Small tumors usually do not show up at all and are found incidentally during examination for other diseases. As the disease progresses, the size of the cyst increases and it begins to put pressure on the spinal roots. And as a result:

    • Neurological disorders of varying severity are detected.
    • There is pain located in the area of ​​the projection of the tumor. Perhaps the spread of pain in the buttocks, lower limbs and other parts of the body.
    • Pain in the spine is felt both at rest and during movement.
    • Possible headache and dizziness, tinnitus (such symptoms are most often associated with arachnoid cysts).
    • Sensory disturbances (pins and needles, tingling, numbness of hands and/or feet, fingers).
    • Impaired bowel and bladder function may result from compression of the associated spinal roots.
    • As the cyst progresses, muscle weakness may develop in the lower extremities, which can lead to lameness. It becomes difficult for the patient to remain in a sitting position for a long time.
    • Paresis of the arms or legs.
    • Vestibular disorders
    • Pain that appears during movement, after prolonged sitting and is localized at the site of projection of the cyst in the spine. According to the degree of intensity, the pain can be severe or weak.

    Diagnosis of a cyst of the spine

    Diagnosis of a cyst of the spine is based on a comprehensive examination.
    • Patient complaints
    • Anamnesis (medical history).
    • General examination assessment of neurological deficit, severity and localization of pain, sensory and motor activity disorders, etc.

    Research methods:

    • Radiography
    • MRI
    • CT (MSCT)
    • Spinal ultrasound
    • CT myelography
    • ENMG – used to evaluate nerve conduction disorders
    • General clinical methods

    Treatment of a spinal cyst

    Treatment of a spinal cyst is complex and is aimed at alleviating the condition and preventing the risk of serious complications. Treatment of spinal cysts can be either conservative or surgical. Conservative treatment is possible with small cysts, in the absence of severe pain and without impaired function of internal organs.

    Conservative treatment of spinal cysts includes:
    • Bed rest.
    • Balanced diet with enough vitamins, proteins, micro and macro elements.
    Drug treatment
    • Prescription of analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
    • Appointment of B vitamins (improvement of metabolic processes in the cell) and vitamin C (strengthens blood vessels and improves immunity).
    • Use of drugs to improve microcirculation
    • The use of drugs that reduce degenerative-dystrophic processes in bone and cartilage tissue (chondroprotectors).

    Blockades . Perhaps the appointment of a therapeutic blockade is the introduction of anesthetics (novocaine, lidocaine) to the place where the pain is most pronounced, the so-called trigger points, or the introduction of an anesthetic into the epidural space (epidural blockade). Possible blockade with the combined use of an anesthetic and a corticosteroid drug (Cortizone, Diprospan).

    Physiotherapy

    Exercise therapy. Therapeutic exercises begin with a minimum load and under the strict supervision of a physician. Exercise therapy is carried out after the elimination of acute pain syndrome and allows you to strengthen the muscles of the back and stabilize the spine.

    Acupuncture (acupuncture, electroacupuncture, laser therapy).

    Corsetting. In certain cases, short-term wearing of various corsets is indicated. They limit the range of motion, reduce pain and muscle spasm.

    Surgical removal of a spinal cyst

    Surgical treatment of a spinal cyst is performed to eliminate compression of the roots and spinal cord, improve blood circulation, restore impaired sensitivity and motor activity, as well as dysfunction of internal organs. And, as a result, surgical treatment of spinal cysts helps to prevent disability and restore working capacity as much as possible.

    Large tumors are usually removed. The volume and type of surgical intervention is determined by the neurosurgeon after the diagnosis is made. Usually the tumor is removed by puncture or completely cut out with all its walls.

    Surgery to remove a spinal cyst can be performed using endoscopic methods or under X-ray or CT guidance, which significantly reduces the risk of postoperative complications.

    Prevention

    Prevention of spinal cysts is non-specific and consists of the following.

    • Balanced diet with a sufficient content of micro and macro elements, protein, vitamins.
    • Minimize the risk of injury and bruising (injury sports are not recommended).
    • Avoid strenuous physical activity such as heavy lifting. Evenly distribute the load throughout the body.
    • Engage in physical activities such as swimming, walking, therapeutic exercises.
    • Monitor weight.
    • Eliminate bad habits .
    • Regularly monitor the presence of parasites in the body
    • Periodically conduct preventive examinations

    Forecast

    The prognosis of a cyst of the spine, with a small size and clinically not manifesting itself, is favorable both for life and for work.