What is the medical term for a cyst on a stalk?

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From the Guidelines

The medical term for a cyst on a stalk is a pedunculated cyst. This term is used to describe a cyst that is attached to the surrounding tissue by a stalk or pedicle, which typically contains blood vessels that supply the cyst with nutrients 1. Pedunculated cysts can occur in various parts of the body, including the skin, ovaries, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. The stalk provides a natural separation point, which can make pedunculated cysts easier to remove surgically compared to sessile cysts (those without stalks) 1.

Key Characteristics of Pedunculated Cysts

  • Attached to surrounding tissue by a stalk or pedicle
  • Stalk typically contains blood vessels that supply the cyst with nutrients
  • Can occur in various parts of the body, including the skin, ovaries, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract
  • Often benign, but should be evaluated by a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis

Importance of Evaluation

If you notice a growth that appears to be on a stalk, it's essential to have it examined to determine if it's a pedunculated cyst or another type of growth, such as a polyp or skin tag, which can have similar appearances 1. A healthcare provider can evaluate the growth and provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treatment Considerations

In some cases, pedunculated cysts may be removed surgically, and the stalk can provide a natural separation point, making removal easier 1. However, the treatment plan will depend on the specific diagnosis and location of the cyst, as well as the individual's overall health. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.

From the Research

Medical Term for a Cyst on a Stalk

The medical term for a cyst on a stalk is often described as "pedunculated" in medical literature. This term refers to a growth or cyst that is attached to the body by a stalk or peduncle.

  • A pedunculated cyst can occur in various parts of the body, including the ear 2, vulva 3, lipoma 4, uterus 5, and skin 6.
  • The stalk or peduncle can be short or long, and the cyst can be filled with fluid, semi-solid, or solid material.
  • Pedunculated cysts can be benign or malignant, and their diagnosis and treatment depend on the underlying cause and location of the cyst.
  • In some cases, a pedunculated cyst can be mistaken for other conditions, such as a lipoma or a Bartholin gland cyst 3, highlighting the importance of proper diagnosis and evaluation.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Pedunculated tragal dermoid cyst misdiagnosed as an accessory tragus.

The British journal of oral & maxillofacial surgery, 2017

Research

Müllerian cyst of the uterus treated with laparoscopy and diagnosed using immunohistology.

The journal of obstetrics and gynaecology research, 2013

Research

[Folliculosebaceous cystic hamartoma: anatomo-clinical study].

Annales de dermatologie et de venereologie, 2012

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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