What is a Cyst?

A cyst is a closed sac filled with fluid or other substances. Cysts can develop in any body part and vary in size and shape. They are usually benign, meaning they are not cancerous, but they can cause problems if they grow too large or become infected.

Cysts can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, blockages in the body’s ducts or channels, and abnormal cell growth. Some cysts are present at birth, while others may develop later in life.

There are many different types of cysts, including sebaceous cysts, which are found under the skin and are often filled with a substance called sebum; ovarian cysts, which develop in the ovaries and can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain or irregular periods; and kidney cysts, which can develop in the kidneys and may cause kidney damage or kidney failure if left untreated.

Treatment for cysts depends on the type of the cyst and its location and may include drainage, medication, or surgery. In many cases, cysts do not cause any symptoms and do not require treatment.

Depending on the type of cyst, there will be many indications and symptoms. However, the odd bump is frequently the first thing a person notices, especially when the cyst is just below the surface.

Many internal cysts, including those that develop in the liver or kidneys, may produce no symptoms. They might go undetected until an imaging test picks them up, like an MRI, CT, or ultrasound scan.

Some cysts, like skin cysts, rarely cause pain unless they rupture, infect the surrounding tissue, or become inflammatory. Breast cysts, however, can hurt.

If a cyst forms on the brain, a person may also have headaches and other symptoms.