A cyst formation on the toe is never a normal development. Any cyst or cyst-like formation on the toe especially one that causes discomfort and pain should be checked by a physician for the correct diagnosis and initiation of the appropriate treatment.
Cyst on Toe
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Commonly referred to as ganglion cysts.
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Also known as bible cysts or Gideon cysts because in the past, the cysts were treated by smashing it with a book.
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Refers to masses of tissues that are filled with fluid resulting in a jelly-like mass.
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Ganglion cysts are quite common.
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These cysts are also usually benign.
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The incidence is more common in women than in men and is also more common in people between the ages of 20 to 40 years old.
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The size of the ganglion cyst may vary, getting smaller or larger over a period of time.
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In some cases, ganglion cysts have disappeared only to recur later.
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The presence of ganglion cysts can make wearing shoes a lot difficult and painful.
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The symptoms of a ganglion cyst include:
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Obvious lump on the foot
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Burning sensation
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Foot pain
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The causes of ganglion cysts include:
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Injury
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Weakening of a tendon or joint space covering
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Diagnostics for a ganglion cyst may include:
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Physical examination – the cyst must move freely underneath the skin surface when it is pressed.
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Biopsy
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Imaging tests such as x-ray, MRI, or ultrasound to help rule out conditions such as bone spurs.
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There is no preventive treatment for ganglion cysts because it has a spontaneous nature.
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Conservative treatment such as warm compresses only relieves the discomfort but it does not prevent the growth.
Cyst on Toe Joint Treatment
Treatment for a ganglion cyst depends on the severity of the situation.
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Patients who are asymptomatic
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Regular follow up check-ups
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Patients prone to ganglion cyst development
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Wearing of prescription shoes
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Placing anti-pressure pads on the lining of the shoes
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Patients who are symptomatic
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Aspiration – the cyst fluid is drained and steroid is then injected into the lump to help decrease the inflammation and stop recurrence of cyst formation. A compression bandage is worn to help reduce inflammation.
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Hyaluronidase – when given together with steroids will increase the cyst cure rate to up to 89% from 57% with cysts healing after just one session.
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Surgery – a treatment of last resort and only chosen when the cyst is unresponsive to other forms of treatment. The cyst is surgically removed. There is a lower risk of cyst recurrence after surgery. There is little or no downtime after surgery.
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