From the Research
For a small cyst on the end of a finger by the nail bed, you should consult a dermatologist or hand specialist. These growths near the nail bed are often mucous cysts (also called digital myxoid cysts) and typically require professional evaluation. While waiting for your appointment, avoid popping or attempting to drain the cyst yourself as this can lead to infection. You can apply warm compresses to the area for 10-15 minutes several times daily to reduce discomfort. If the cyst is painful, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help temporarily.
Key Considerations
- These cysts form when synovial fluid leaks from a joint or when the tissue producing nail matrix becomes damaged, creating a small, fluid-filled sac.
- A medical professional can properly diagnose the cyst and recommend appropriate treatment, which might include observation, drainage, corticosteroid injection, or surgical removal depending on the size, location, and symptoms.
- According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, surgical excision has been shown to have a higher success rate and lower recurrence rate compared to aspiration and steroid injection for the management of ganglion cysts, suggesting that surgical removal could be a preferred treatment option for similar cysts.
Treatment Options
- Observation: Monitoring the cyst for any changes in size, shape, or symptoms.
- Drainage: Removing the fluid from the cyst, which may provide temporary relief.
- Corticosteroid injection: Injecting steroids into the cyst to reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Surgical removal: Removing the cyst surgically, which has been shown to have a high success rate and low recurrence rate 1.
Important Notes
- It is essential to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, as they can assess the cyst and recommend the best course of action based on individual circumstances.
- The study by 2 suggests that surgery yields the highest cure rate among all treatment modalities for digital mucous cysts, supporting the recommendation for surgical removal as a preferred treatment option.