Cysts and Granulomas: What you Need to Know
Cysts and granulomas are two types of lumps that can form in the body. Although they can be mistaken for one another, they have different causes and treatments. So before starting to a treatment, first you should know the differences between each other.
Cysts
Cysts are sac-like structures that can form in any part of the body. They are usually filled with air, fluid, or other materials. Cysts can be caused by genetic causes, blockage of the excretory ducts by glands, cell death or cellular deformations. Cysts can appear on the skin, in organs, or in tissues. They are often harmless and do not require medical treatment. However, if a cyst becomes infected or inflamed, it may need to be drained or removed.
Causes of Cysts
Cysts can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Infections
- Blockages of ducts
- Genetic conditions
- Trauma or injury
In some cases, cysts can develop due to a combination of these factors. Doctors use the most accurate techniques to make a definitive diagnosis. Cysts can be caused by hereditary diseases, blockages in the secretory ducts, hormonal irregularities, chronic diseases or familial predisposition. If we can list the details, it can also be said that below factors are available;
- Genetic factors or congenital causes
- Blockage of the excretory ducts of the glands in the body
- Material accumulated as a result of cellular deformations and cell death in the cells of the body
- Tumor formations
- Formation of chambers due to infection or previous operations and fluid remaining in them
- The secretions made by chronic inflammations in the body remain between the tissues
- Anomalies that may occur during embryo development
- Parasites in the body
- Injuries, bruises or traumas
- Fluid accumulation as a result of blockages in the ducts in any part of the body
Epidermoid Cysts
Epidermoid cysts are the most common type of cyst. They form when skin cells move deeper into the skin and multiply. These cysts are usually small and painless, but they can become infected and inflamed.
Sebaceous Cysts
Sebaceous cysts develop in the oil glands of the skin. They are often found on the face, neck, or torso. Sebaceous cysts are usually small and painless, but they can become infected and inflamed.
Cysts are generally fluid-filled sacs surrounded by a membrane. Epidermoid cysts are very common lesions of the sebaceous skin. They are also popularly known as sebaceous cysts. There is a membrane around the cyst and its content consists of a thick, oily, foul-smelling liquid. It is not a life-threatening disease. They are benign lumps of the skin. Very rarely they can be malignant. They grow very slowly.
Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the tendons or joints of the body. They are usually found on the wrist or hand. Ganglion cysts are often painless, but they can cause discomfort if they press on nearby nerves.
It is a cystic swelling caused by herniation of the membrane of the joint or tendon sheaths. It is more common in women. The exact cause of ganglion cysts is unknown, but it is associated with anatomical defects or cystic erosion of the joint capsule and tendon sheaths. There is a ganglion cyst wall composed of connective tissue and a dense, sticky, colorless and jelly-like fluid. It is more common on the dorsum of the wrist and sometimes on the inside of the wrist. The swelling is the size of a hazelnut.
Treatment of Cysts
Most cysts do not require medical treatment. However, if a cyst becomes infected or inflamed, it may need to be drained or removed. This can be done through a small incision in the skin. In some cases, a cyst may need to be removed completely.
Granulomas
Granulomas are small nodules that form in the body as a reaction to an infection, inflammation, or foreign substance. They are usually found in the lungs, but they can also appear in other parts of the body. Granulomas are often harmless and do not require medical treatment. However, if a granuloma grows large enough to press on nearby organs, it may cause symptoms and require treatment.
Causes of Granulomas
Granulomas can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Infections, such as tuberculosis or fungal infections
- Inflammation, such as sarcoidosis
- Exposure to foreign substances, such as certain types of dust or chemicals
In some cases, the cause of a granuloma may be unknown. In these type situations, doctors do research deeper and try to find the cause.
Treatment of Granulomas
Treatment for granulomas depends on the underlying cause. If a granuloma is caused by an infection, in this case antibiotics or antifungal medications may be prescribed. If a granuloma is caused by inflammation, corticosteroids may be prescribed. If a granuloma is causing symptoms, it may need to be removed surgically.
Cysts vs Granulomas
Cysts and granulomas can be mistaken for one another because they can both appear as lumps in the body. However, they have different causes and treatments.
Cysts are usually harmless and do not require medical treatment. They can be caused by infections, blockages of ducts, genetic conditions, trauma or injury. The most common types of cysts are epidermoid cysts, sebaceous cysts, and ganglion cysts.
Granulomas are often harmless and do not require medical treatment. They can be caused by infections, inflammation, or exposure to foreign substances. The most common cause of granulomas is tuberculosis.
If a cyst or granuloma becomes infected or inflamed, it may need to be drained or removed. If a granuloma grows large enough to press on nearby organs, it may cause symptoms and require treatment.
Conclusion
Cysts and granulomas are two types of lumps that can form in the body. Although they can be mistaken for one another, they have different causes and treatments. Cysts are usually harmless and do not require medical treatment unless they become infected or inflamed. Granulomas are often harmless and do not require medical treatment unless they grow large enough to cause symptoms. If you are concerned about a lump in your body, it is important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
