Cyst facts

  • Cysts are closed sac-like or capsule structures that may be filled with semisolid material, gaseous material, or liquid.
  • There are several causes of cysts, including genetic, infectious, and other causes that result in hundreds of types of cysts.
  • Risk factors for developing a cyst are related to the underlying causes of the cyst formation.
  • Most cysts are asymptomatic and have no signs. However, some cysts on the skin, mucous membranes, and those located in palpable organs often can be felt as a lump or bump; sometimes they are painful.
  • Some cysts may produce symptoms related to the organs in which they are located (for example, the liver, pancreas, or kidneys).
  • It’s possible to diagnose cysts by palpation, ultrasound, X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and needle biopsies.
  • Most cysts do not require treatment, however, physicians may use needle aspiration or surgical removal to treat some cysts.
  • There are many specialists, both medical and surgical, who may treat cysts.
  • Check with a doctor before trying home remedies to remove cysts.
  • The prognosis for most cysts is good; a few cysts that contain malignant cells have a more guarded prognosis.
  • Most cysts are not preventable; those that are preventable are usually related to infectious causes.