What are cysts and how do they form. What are the different types of cysts that can develop in the body. How are cysts diagnosed and treated. What complications can arise from untreated cysts. When should you seek medical attention for a cyst.

What Are Cysts and How Do They Form?

Cysts are small, sac-like pockets of tissue filled with fluid, pus, or other substances. They can develop almost anywhere in the body or under the skin. While most cysts are benign (noncancerous), they may require treatment depending on their location, size, and whether they cause discomfort or complications.

How do cysts form? There are several potential causes:

• Blockage in ducts or glands
• Infections
• Injuries or trauma
• Inherited conditions
• Cellular defects
• Parasites
• Chronic inflammatory conditions

The specific cause often depends on the type of cyst. For example, epidermoid cysts typically form when skin cells become trapped beneath the surface, while ovarian cysts may develop due to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.

Common Types of Cysts and Their Characteristics

There are numerous types of cysts, each with distinct features and locations. Here are some of the most common varieties:

Epidermoid Cysts

Epidermoid cysts are small, benign bumps filled with keratin, a protein essential for forming skin, hair, and nails. These cysts typically appear on the face, neck, or torso as skin-colored, tan, or yellowish bumps. They form when hair follicles become blocked, causing skin cells to accumulate beneath the surface.

Sebaceous Cysts

Sebaceous cysts contain sebum, an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands in the skin. They often develop on the face, neck, or torso due to damage to these glands. While less common than epidermoid cysts, sebaceous cysts share similar appearances and can be mistaken for one another.

Breast Cysts

Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in breast tissue. They are typically benign but may cause pain or tenderness in the affected area. It’s crucial to have any new breast lumps evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.

Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are round, gel-filled lumps that usually appear along tendons or joints, particularly in the hands, wrists, ankles, and feet. While often harmless, they can cause discomfort if they grow large enough to put pressure on nearby structures.

Pilonidal Cysts

Pilonidal cysts form in the cleft at the top of the buttocks, often after puberty. They consist of a small hole or tunnel in the skin that may become infected and fill with fluid or pus. Hormonal changes, hair growth, and friction from clothing or prolonged sitting can contribute to their development.

Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or within the ovaries. They often form when a follicle fails to release an egg or when it improperly recloses after egg release. While common in women of reproductive age, ovarian cysts that occur after menopause may indicate an increased risk of cancer.

Baker’s Cysts

Also known as popliteal cysts, Baker’s cysts are swollen, fluid-filled sacs that form behind the knee. They often result from conditions affecting the joints, such as arthritis or cartilage injuries. Baker’s cysts can cause pain, inflammation, and reduced range of motion in the knee.

Diagnosing Cysts: When to Seek Medical Attention

While many cysts are harmless and may not require treatment, it’s essential to have any new or changing lumps evaluated by a healthcare professional. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Rapid growth or changes in the size of a cyst
• Pain or discomfort associated with the cyst
• Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or discharge
• Cysts in sensitive areas or those that interfere with daily activities
• Any breast lumps or changes

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and may include imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to determine the cyst’s size, location, and characteristics. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out cancer or other serious conditions.

Treatment Options for Cysts: From Observation to Surgery

The appropriate treatment for a cyst depends on various factors, including its type, location, size, and whether it’s causing symptoms or complications. Treatment options may include:

1. Observation: Small, asymptomatic cysts may not require treatment and can be monitored for changes over time.
2. Medication: Antibiotics may be prescribed if the cyst is infected. Hormonal medications can help manage certain types of cysts, such as those in the ovaries.
3. Drainage: Some cysts can be drained using a needle to remove the fluid or contents.
4. Injection: Corticosteroid injections may help reduce inflammation and shrink certain types of cysts.
5. Surgery: Surgical removal may be necessary for large, persistent, or problematic cysts. This can often be done as an outpatient procedure.

Does cyst removal leave a scar? While minor scarring is possible with surgical removal, dermatologists and surgeons often use techniques to minimize visible scarring. The extent of scarring depends on the cyst’s size, location, and the specific procedure used.

Preventing Cysts: Lifestyle Factors and Risk Reduction

While not all cysts can be prevented, certain lifestyle factors may help reduce the risk of developing some types of cysts:

• Maintain good hygiene to prevent skin infections that can lead to cyst formation
• Avoid tight clothing that causes friction, especially in areas prone to pilonidal cysts
• Protect yourself from injuries that could lead to ganglion cysts
• Manage underlying health conditions, such as arthritis, that may contribute to cyst development
• Perform regular self-exams to detect any new lumps or changes in your body

Can diet affect cyst formation? While there’s limited evidence linking specific foods to cyst development, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and staying hydrated may support overall skin and body health, potentially reducing the risk of certain types of cysts.

Complications and Risks Associated with Untreated Cysts

Although many cysts are benign and may resolve on their own, leaving them untreated can sometimes lead to complications:

• Infection: Cysts can become infected, leading to abscesses or cellulitis
• Rupture: A ruptured cyst can cause inflammation and pain
• Compression: Large cysts may press on nearby structures, causing discomfort or interfering with function
• Cosmetic concerns: Visible cysts may cause emotional distress or self-consciousness
• Malignant transformation: In rare cases, some cysts may develop into cancerous growths

How quickly can cysts grow? The growth rate of cysts varies depending on their type and individual factors. Some cysts may remain stable for years, while others can grow rapidly over weeks or months. Any sudden or significant change in a cyst’s size should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Cysts in Special Populations: Considerations for Children and Older Adults

While cysts can affect people of all ages, there are some special considerations for different age groups:

Cysts in Children

Children can develop various types of cysts, including:

• Dermoid cysts: Often present at birth, these cysts contain tissue from multiple cell types
• Branchial cleft cysts: Formed during fetal development, these cysts appear on the neck
• Pilomatrixoma: A type of skin cyst that’s more common in children and young adults

Pediatric cysts often require careful monitoring and may need treatment to prevent complications during growth and development.

Cysts in Older Adults

As people age, they may be more prone to certain types of cysts:

• Sebaceous cysts: More common in older adults due to changes in skin texture and oil production
• Kidney cysts: Simple kidney cysts become more prevalent with age
• Ovarian cysts: Post-menopausal ovarian cysts require careful evaluation due to increased cancer risk

Do cysts become more common with age? While some types of cysts are more prevalent in older adults, cysts can occur at any age. Regular health check-ups and self-exams can help detect cysts early, regardless of age.

Living with Cysts: Coping Strategies and Quality of Life

For individuals living with chronic or recurring cysts, coping strategies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help alleviate discomfort
• Stress reduction: Stress management techniques may help, as stress can exacerbate some cyst-related symptoms
• Support groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide emotional support
• Adaptive clothing: For visible or uncomfortable cysts, choosing appropriate clothing can help minimize irritation and self-consciousness
• Regular follow-ups: Maintaining scheduled check-ups with healthcare providers ensures proper monitoring and timely intervention if needed

Can lifestyle changes help manage recurring cysts? While not all cysts can be prevented through lifestyle modifications, maintaining overall health through proper nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management may help reduce the frequency or severity of some types of cysts.

Living with cysts, whether temporary or chronic, can present both physical and emotional challenges. By working closely with healthcare providers, adopting appropriate coping strategies, and staying informed about their condition, individuals can effectively manage cysts and maintain a good quality of life.

Pictures, Causes, Types, Treatments, and Prevention

A cyst is a small pocket of tissue filled with fluid, pus, or other substances. Cyst maybe caused by injury, infection, or other issues. They’re 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
• whether 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.

Epidermoid cyst

Epidermoid cysts are small, benign bumps filled with keratin. Kertain is a protein that’s essential in forming your skin, hair, and nails. Epidermoid cysts occur when something blocks hair follicles, and skin cells build up beneath this blockage.

These cysts can look like a skin-colored, tan, or yellowish bump filled with thick material. They typically occur on your face, neck, or torso, but can occur across your body.

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

Read more about epidermoid cysts.

Sebaceous cyst

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

Sebaceous cysts are filled with sebum and are less common than epidermoid cysts. They often form within sebaceous glands, which are part of your skin and hair follicles. Sebaceous glands make oil for your skin and hair.

These cysts most commonly occur on your face, neck, or torso, and are often the result of damage to sebaceous glands.

Read more about sebaceous cysts.

Breast cyst

Share on PinterestPhotography courtesy of Nevit Dilmen/Wikimedia Commons

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

While breast cysts are noncancerous, there are many possible other more serious causes for a lump in your breast. 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 try to 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 difficulties 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 your buttocks. It consists of a small hole or tunnel in the skin that may become infected and fill with fluid or pus and it typically occurs after puberty.

Changing hormones, hair growth, and friction from clothes or from spending a long time sitting may all cause a pilonidal cyst.

Symptoms of an infection include:

• pain when sitting or standing
• discolored 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 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 and are typically first found during pelvic exams.

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

Read more about ovarian cysts.

Baker (popliteal) cyst

A Baker cyst is a swollen, fluid-filled sac at the back of your knee.

Causes of Baker cysts include conditions or occurrences that affect the joints such as arthritis, inflammation from repetitive stress, or a cartilage injury. Baker cysts can cause inflammation and pain and lower range of motion in your knee.

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

Read more about Baker cysts.

Pilar cyst

A pilar cyst is a noncancerous, skin-colored, round bump that develops under the surface of your skin. They usually affect the skin on the scalp and results from protein buildup in a hair follicle.

They’re not cancerous, but they can grow to a size that can be uncomfortable.

Read more about pilar cysts.

Mucous cyst

A mucous cyst is a fluid-filled lump that forms on your lip or around your 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. But if you have recurring or frequent mucous cysts, you may need medical treatment.

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 your neck or below your collarbone. It occurs during embryonic development when tissues in your neck and collarbone, or branchial cleft, develop differently.

In most cases, a branchial cleft cyst isn’t dangerous. But it may cause skin irritation, skin infection, or — in very rare adult cases — cancer.

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, including falls, injuries, and heavy exertion.

A perineural cyst can cause pain in your lower back, buttocks, or legs, but this is rare. If you do have symptoms, draining the fluid can help to relieve them.

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)

Share on PinterestFCG/Shutterstock

Folliculitis is an infection of hair follicles. It’s often the result of a fungal or bacterial infection and can often resemble acne.

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.

Read more about ingrown hair cysts.

Chalazion

Share on PinterestManish thapaa/Shutterstock

A chalazion is a small, usually painless lump on your eyelids that occurs 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 difficulties.

Read more about chalazia.

Cystic acne

Share on Pinterestideation90/Getty Images

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 these boils rupture, they can cause scarring.

Cystic acne most commonly occurs on your face, chest, neck, back, and arms.

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

Learn more about acne treatments here.

A cyst can appear as a bump on your skin. These can vary in size from small, pimple-sized lumps to much larger, more obvious growths.

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

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

Most cysts aren’t painful. They usually don’t cause difficulties 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.

You should try to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional if your cyst becomes painful, or increasingly inflamed. This could be a symptom of a rupture or an infection.

They should check your cyst even if it isn’t causing any pain or other difficulties. 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, as 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 lower inflammation in the cyst
• performing a 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 difficulties. 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, a 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, but 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

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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

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

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Breast cyst – symptoms, puncture, treatment, operation

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  What is a breast cyst?
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Author – Sergei Alexandrovich Tverezovsky , surgeon-oncologist, mammologist, oncodermatologist, candidate of medical sciences, doctor of the highest category.

Breast cyst is one of the manifestations of fibrocystic mastopathy in a woman. Cyst in the mammary gland is a capsule with liquid contents that forms in the ducts of the organ itself.

If the cyst has a dense fibrous capsule and persists for a long time in the breast tissue, it is called a fibrous or chronic cyst.

If there are constrictions, bridges, parietal growths, inhomogeneous compaction, and an indistinctly defined border in the cavity of the cyst of the mammary gland, such a formation is called complex or atypical breast cyst .

An atypical cyst is most often formed in the expansion of the duct of the mammary gland, it is also prone to recurrence and inflammation.
As a rule, an atypical breast cyst has growths on the walls protruding into the cyst cavity. An atypical cyst is a reason for an urgent appeal to an oncologist-mammologist with a subsequent decision on the issue of its treatment. .

According to the number cysts in the mammary gland are single ( solitary ) and multiple. Multiple breast cysts are formed mainly in young women, they are small in size (up to 5-7 mm) – as a manifestation of a diffuse form of mastopathy.

Multiple cysts in the mammary gland can be detected independently by palpation. Most small cysts that have arisen in the breast tissue can resolve on their own or occur elsewhere in the organ (the course of fibrocystic disease). As a rule, such cysts do not require aggressive treatment tactics, dynamic observation by a mammologist-oncologist 2-3 times a year and conservative therapy are sufficient.

Breast cyst is not a precancerous disease, but it can be a potential source of breast cancer.

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Causes of breast cysts

The main and main reason for the appearance of a cyst in the mammary gland is a hormonal imbalance in the female body, that is, the absolute or relative dominance of estrogens over progesterone.

Other factors contributing to the occurrence of cysts in the mammary gland :

1. Diseases of the female genital organs (adenomyosis, endometritis, salpengitis, fibroids, endometrial hyperplasia, ovarian cysts),
2. Problems with female reproductive function (early menarche, late menopause, no pregnancies and births, late first births, low number of births, failure to breastfeed),
3. Diseases of the thyroid gland, pancreas, adrenal glands, diseases of the liver and biliary tract (hepatitis, hepatosis, disorders of the outflow of bile),
4. The most common and common cause of hyperestrogenism in a woman’s body is stress, chronically experienced emotions with a negative connotation.

Breast cyst – symptoms

How do cysts appear in the breast? For a long time, a breast cyst may be asymptomatic, then pain and burning in the chest begin, which increase before and during menstruation.

The main symptoms of a breast cyst that disturb the patients:

• Breast engorgement before menstruation, pulling, bursting pains, sometimes itching, burning, swelling of the breast tissue.
• Local seal – elastic-elastic or elastic-tight (for inflamed, tense or fibrous cyst). Soreness is not diffuse, but local.
• A large cyst can change the contour of the breast or completely deform the breast .
• Discharge from the nipple , which may vary in volume, consistency and color (from clear to bloody).
• When complications such as inflammation, suppuration, tension are attached, additional symptoms appear – increased pain, more pronounced swelling of tissues and skin, redness, a feeling of heat, burning.

Why is a breast cyst dangerous?

Most cysts in the mammary gland do not manifest themselves in any way, and many women find out about their presence only when they are examined by a mammologist.

A health hazard arises from the addition of complications – such as inflammation of the cyst , suppuration, fusion of the cyst. When a focus of limited inflammation is first formed in the mammary gland, and then an abscess. Such situations require urgent surgical intervention and the appointment of antibiotic therapy.

But most importantly – any formation of the mammary gland , including a cyst, as long as it remains in the thickness of the breast tissue, and the patient is not examined by a mammologist – may potentially have a malignant growth .

If any limited formations in the breast tissue are detected , immediately contact a mammologist oncologist for the necessary examination and treatment .

In no case should you self-medicate (heat, apply compresses, use folk methods). Self-medication is a danger to the health and life of a woman.

Breast cyst – diagnosis

Of course, palpation of the breast is the very first and most common diagnostic method. Any modern woman should know the technique of breast self-examination and palpate her breast once a month. It is the detected seal in the chest that is the reason for an unscheduled visit to the oncomammologist.

However, only scheduled examinations by a specialist can protect you, which should be carried out at least once a year for preventive purposes, and once every 6 months in the presence of mastopathy.

The oncologist-mammologist of our clinic uses the following methods of examination for diagnosis of breast cysts :

• Ultrasound of the mammary glands ;
• Fine-needle aspiration biopsy ( puncture of a breast cyst ) – collection of liquid contents from the cyst cavity;
• Cytological examination – to rule out the diagnosis of breast cancer;

How often do you need to visit a breast oncologist to detect a breast cyst?

Visits to a specialist as part of a preventive examination must be carried out at least once a year. During this visit, the oncologist-mammologist of our clinic will recommend the necessary diagnostic tests after a physical examination.

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How to treat a breast cyst

The tactics of how to cure a breast cyst are chosen directly by the oncologist-mammologist of our clinic. Treatment of breast cyst can be conservative, minimally invasive and surgical.

• Conservative treatment: is used if the patient has a breast cyst of a typical structure, and according to the cytological examination, atypical cells are not obtained. Conservative methods of treatment of breast cysts, which are used by the oncologist-mammologist of our clinic, are aimed at combating hormonal imbalance.

  Conservative treatment of breast cyst is carried out with the help of drugs – hormonal or non-hormonal, as well as sedative therapy. A properly selected course of conservative treatment of breast cysts allows you to solve the problem without surgery.

• Minimally invasive treatment: Breast cyst puncture can be not only a diagnostic but also a therapeutic method. The minimally invasive procedure is called cyst sclerotherapy . The procedure is quite simple, it is performed by an oncologist surgeon, a mammologist of our clinic, on an outpatient basis, under ultrasound control. After complete evacuation of the contents of the cyst (which is clearly visible during ultrasound control), the doctor introduces biological glue or alcohol, alcohol solution of iodine, air into the cyst cavity, which promotes adhesion of the cyst walls and prevents its recurrence.
• O surgical treatment : if an atypical cyst , a chronic cyst, an inhomogeneous, recurrent, complicated cyst, as well as cystadenopapilloma is found during the examination by a specialist of our clinic, or dubious or suspicious cells are obtained during a TAB biopsy, we running to surgical treatments.

  Removal of the cyst is also necessary if sclerotherapy has been performed repeatedly, but the cyst recurs.

How is a breast cyst removed?

Most often, an oncologist surgeon, a mammologist performs sectoral resection of the type of lumpectomy , removing the breast cyst with a small amount of surrounding tissues, preferably preserving its integrity).

We send the material obtained during the operation to remove the cyst for histological examination, which will dot the i’s in terms of excluding the oncological process.

If the diagnosis of “breast cancer” is confirmed, a council of doctors of our clinic will choose a treatment tactic, and a highly qualified oncologist surgeon will perform a more extended and voluminous operation, in each case solving aesthetic issues with the best cosmetic effect.

Save your health – contact an experienced specialist in time. Sign up for a consultation with an oncologist-mammologist by calling the clinic – +7 (812) 952-83-73, +7 (812) 318-59-90.

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Breast cyst: causes, symptoms, treatment
The disease initially proceeds almost asymptomatically.

After some time, unpleasant sensations appear – burning, itching, slight pain and seals in the structure of the chest. Symptoms are aggravated by menstruation.

Breast cyst most often occurs with hormonal disorders in women. The disease most often occurs in women aged 35 to 50 years (before menopause), but can occur at any age.

There is a small chance of malignancy of the cystic formation.

What is a breast cyst

A cavity bounded by a capsule and filled with liquid contents is called a cyst. If these pathological structures are in the tissues of the mammary glands – are breast cysts .

Such a capsule is formed due to the expansion of the lactiferous duct of the gland, which is stretched and gradually filled with fluid. The duct then closes and forms a capsule. At first, there is no discomfort, and in the early stages the disease goes unnoticed.

As the cyst grows, unpleasant and painful sensations appear. The contents of the cyst may become inflamed, making the pain intense. Before and during menstruation, discomfort intensifies and can become quite painful. The neoplasm can be round, oval or more complex in shape. Its size ranges from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Large cystic formations can change the breast to a visually noticeable deformation.

Education can be single or multiple (group).

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Causes of breast cysts

Usually the cause of the cyst is neglected mastopathy and serious endocrine disorders. The main factors causing the disease are:

• a strong deviation from the norm of the hormonal background of a woman, an excess of estrogen;
• frequent exposure to stress;
• heredity;
• pregnancy and childbirth;
• not breastfeeding;
• breastfeeding a child for more than a year;
• physical damage (injury) of the chest;
• exceeding the duration of the use of hormonal contraceptives or not observing the required pauses when taking them;
• abortions, especially numerous;
• surgical interventions on the chest;
• excessive exposure to the sun and an overdose of ultraviolet rays in solariums;
• late pregnancies;
• childlessness;
• use of “interrupted intercourse” as a means of contraception;
• overweight (obesity) or breast hypertrophy;
• malnutrition, violation of fat metabolism, leading to hormonal disruptions;
• intoxication of the body in hazardous industries;
• bad habits: smoking, alcohol abuse or unnatural foods.

Also, pathology can accompany a number of the following diseases:

• diabetes mellitus;
• liver disease, biliary disorders;
• dysfunction of the thyroid gland;
• ovarian diseases leading to hormonal disorders;
• infections of the genitourinary system;
• diseases of the thoracic spine, thoracic scoliosis.

The causes of pathology are really diverse. If risk factors are present, it is necessary to monitor the condition of your mammary glands. It is desirable to exclude from life the causes of the appearance of this disease. Many of them are eliminated quite easily – for example, bad habits and malnutrition, leading to obesity.

Classification of cystic masses

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By location and structure, cysts are classified into the following types:

The structure of education is divided into 2 forms:

1. Plain . Consists of a smooth vesicle-like cystic capsule with fluid contents , originates from ducts in the mammary glands . Its structure is soft and elastic, this form can go unnoticed for a long time.
2. Atypical. Hollow capsule from the walls of which calcified outgrowths “grow” into the cavity. This type of cyst quickly becomes inflamed, has a rigid structure and causes discomfort.

By size can be divided into 2 groups:

1. Microcysts. The size is a few millimeters. Cannot be detected by palpation.
2. Macrocysts. The size exceeds 1 cm (10 mm) and can reach up to 5 cm (50 mm). Easily detected by probing even with self-diagnosis.

By the number of units of cyst formation, it happens:

1. Solitary. Solitary formation, usually large. When reaching sizes of more than 10 mm, it can cause pain.
2. Multiple . Consists of several small capsules located nearby. It is usually well palpable, as it occupies a large volume.
3. Multi-chamber. Occurs with polycystosis, when a group of adjacent formations unites into one.

By location in tissues:

1. Flow through. Formed by hollow outgrowths in the lactiferous ducts of the gland. Occurs during menopause in women 40-50 years old.
2. Fat. Formed in the body of the gland due to blockage of the sebaceous duct.

After classifying the cyst, the doctor determines the most appropriate treatment.

Breast cyst symptoms

At the initial stage of development, this benign neoplasm may not manifest itself at all, and is diagnosed by chance on ultrasound. With its further development, the following symptoms may appear:

• mammary glands become painful when touched, the symptom is especially pronounced during menstruation;
• on palpation, you can feel a smooth formation that moves in the body of the gland;
• roughness of the skin of the nipples;
• discharge from the nipples of a white, yellow liquid or pus;
• a significant increase in breast size before menstruation and a strong decrease after it;
• deformation of the organ, with large formations, the change in the shape of the breast is noticeable visually;
• enlarged axillary lymph nodes and pain in the axillary region;
• pain when squeezing the chest;
• pain, burning or itching may occur without mechanical action on the chest;
• with an inflamed cyst, an increase in temperature is possible.

If a woman discovers something similar in herself, she should urgently consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Breast cyst diagnostics

All studies of the mammary glands are best done at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. At this time, female hormones are at a minimum, so there is no too sharp pain, as before and during menstruation.

There are many methods for diagnosing the condition of the mammary glands:

• Self-diagnosis. A woman independently feels her mammary glands and determines the presence of places with pain when you press them. Also reveals shaped hard or painful breast structures. Feeling should be gentle so as not to damage the delicate structure of the mammary gland. This type of self-examination is desirable to conduct regularly, at least once a month. If there are painful sensations or formed structures, you should immediately consult a doctor. If nothing is found, you should still check the condition of the mammary glands with a specialist at least once a year. Small cysts cannot be found by palpation.
• Medical examination of the breast helps to determine the presence of neoplasms. Unfortunately, the method does not make it possible to determine the type of formation. The detection of any solid structures in the gland requires more accurate examinations using modern equipment.
• Mammography. X-ray examination of the chest. Determines the shape, size, localization and type of pathological structures of the gland. It is recommended that all women over 45 have a mammogram once a year. This method helps to identify in the early stages many diseases that have not yet manifested themselves as symptoms. Regular mammograms are called screenings. If suspicious structures are identified, a second examination may be prescribed – this is a diagnostic mammogram. It is done for a more detailed and scrupulous examination.
• Ultrasound examination (ultrasound). Allows you to determine the shape, size, structure and internal structure of all neoplasms, including cysts. Usually, ultrasound also determines the elasticity of tissues (elastography). When examining a cyst, it is considered one of the best methods. It has a high diagnostic accuracy and makes it possible to examine the internal structure of the cyst body.
• Magnetic resonance imaging. Shows the structure of the cyst and parietal tissues. It is prescribed if mammography was not enough for a more complete study of the structure of the gland and its pathologies.
• Fine-needle aspiration (puncture) of the contents of the cyst. Using an ultrasound machine, the doctor pierces the cyst with a thin needle and extracts fluid from it, which will be sent for additional research. This method is also used to treat cysts by extracting fluid from the formation cavity.
• Cytological analysis. Biological material is taken from the formation, obtained by fine-needle puncture from the cyst, then examined by microscopic cytological methods.
• Study of hormonal balance. It is necessary to identify the causes of the disease.

When visiting a mammologist for diagnostic purposes, it is necessary to tell in detail:

• what symptoms occur and for how long;
• what preparations, including contraceptives and vitamins, are used;
• whether there are reasons for stress;
• whether the menstrual cycle is regular;
• whether the cyst was found earlier.

Complications of breast cyst

Pathogenic microorganisms can get into the cavity of the cyst, filled with liquid, , which often leads to inflammation. This is a very common complication.

Without treatment, an inflamed cyst can turn into an abscess. This can lead to rupture of the cyst and infection of the body. The consequences of such complications are very serious, up to sepsis.

It is possible that the cyst will transform from a benign neoplasm to a malignant one. Although the probability is small, it should not be neglected.

There is another danger – a large number of cystic formations can interfere with the detection of malignant tumors, if any.

Breast cyst treatment

There is a false opinion – “it does not hurt, so it is not necessary to treat.” Or “it will resolve itself.” However, cases of self-healing are so rare that you should not rely on them. You should also forget about the complications described above. Therefore, when a cyst is detected, treatment should be started immediately.

With a small size of the cyst and the absence of inflammation, conservative methods of treatment can be limited.

These methods include:

• Medicated. A number of drugs are used to eliminate the underlying causes of the disease. Hormonal drugs eliminate the imbalance of the endocrine system. Fortifying and vitamin complexes fix the result. With the background presence of stress, sedatives are used.
• Aspiration. With the help of a thin needle, liquid is drawn out of the cavity. The cavity can be filled with a therapeutic composition, this is one of the methods of treatment.

If the disease does not respond to conservative methods of treatment, has progressed into dangerous forms or complications have arisen, surgical methods are used:

• Laparoscopic surgery. Minimally invasive intervention using a laparoscope, which makes a puncture in the mammary glands. It is used if the size of the cyst is small.
• Surgical removal of the mass. It is done with a tissue incision. It is used if the size of the neoplasm is large. During the operation, the portion of the gland affected by the cyst can be removed.
• Surgical removal of the mammary gland. It is used if almost the entire gland is affected by polycystic disease. After that, reconstructive breast surgery is performed.

Since the operated organ is outside, the operation is not difficult. Does not require a long recovery period after it. Modern surgical technique presents an opportunity to minimize postoperative scarring. After the punctures and incisions have healed, they become little or not noticeable at all.

The following treatment methods should be added here, used in conjunction with conservative and surgical methods:

• Diet therapy. It will help to get rid of the risk of re-formation of the cyst. Normalizing nutrition eliminates the risk of obesity and estrogen hypersecretion.
• Physical education. Moderate physical activity will restore metabolism. This greatly reduces the risk of relapse.
• Psychotherapy. If there is constant stress in a woman’s life, there is a possibility of a return of the disease. It is necessary to eliminate stress and restore the psycho-emotional state of the patient.

By diagnosing problems in the early stages, surgery can be avoided. Compliance with simple rules of prevention will prevent the recurrence of the disease.

Breast cyst prophylaxis

In fact, the prevention of breast cysts can be described in one phrase – a healthy lifestyle.