Introduction

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that usually develops near a joint or tendon. The cyst can range fromthe size of a pea to the size of a golf ball.

Ganglion cysts look and feel like a smooth lump under the skin. They're made up of a thick, jelly-like fluid called synovial fluid, which surrounds joints and tendons to lubricate and cushion them during movement.

Ganglions can occur alongside any joint in the body, but are most commonon the wrist (particularly the back of the wrist), and the hand and fingers.

Ganglions are harmless, but can sometimes be painful. If they don't cause any pain or discomfort, they can be left alone and may disappear without treatment, although this can take a number of years.

It's not clear why ganglions form. They seem to occur when the synovial fluid that surrounds a joint or tendon leaks out and collects in a sac.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 24 Nov 2016