Differential Diagnosis for a Moveable Cyst to the Elbow

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Ganglion cyst: This is the most common cause of a moveable cyst near the elbow, often resulting from a herniation of the joint capsule or a tendon sheath. It is usually benign and can be tender, especially if it presses on nearby nerves.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of a bursa near the elbow can cause a moveable cystic structure. This condition often results from repetitive motion or direct pressure on the elbow.
  • Lipoma: A benign tumor composed of fat tissue, which can feel like a moveable cyst. Lipomas are common and can occur almost anywhere on the body, including near the elbow.
  • Epidermoid cyst: A benign cyst that can occur anywhere on the skin, including near the elbow. It is usually filled with a cheesy material and can be moveable.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Sarcoma (e.g., synovial sarcoma): Although rare, sarcomas can present as a moveable mass near the elbow. Missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences, as sarcomas are malignant and require prompt treatment.
  • Neurofibroma: A benign nerve sheath tumor that can feel like a moveable cyst. It is associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and can cause neurological symptoms if it compresses nearby nerves.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Hygroma: A rare, benign cystic lesion that usually occurs in children. It can present as a moveable mass near the elbow.
  • Synovial chondromatosis: A rare condition characterized by the growth of cartilage in the synovial membrane of joints or tendon sheaths, which can cause a moveable cystic structure near the elbow.