So what exactly is a cyst? Well, in a nutshell, a cyst is a small sac that may grow on your skin, an organ, or other body tissue. Most of the time a cyst is harmless. However, in some cases a cyst may be a sign of a serious condition. (hormonal imbalance or cancer)

Because there are so many different types of cyst we can not explain them all but if you are having a problem with cysts you can get the information you need from a doctor at Outpatient Services East. In fact, if you have a cyst it is a good idea to have it checked out even if it is not bothering you.

You may think you have a cyst but you may have an abscess or tumor instead. It depends on what the sac if filled with. Cysts are usually filled with fluid (such as skin oil) but they sometimes are filled with air, water, or semi-solid matter from the body. Abscesses most likely are the result of an infection and contain pus. A tumor, on the other hand, is typically filled with body tissue.

Cyst often develop if oil or fluids are not able to flow freely from the body. A cyst can occur on the skin when a hair follicle becomes damaged or blocked. Almost all cyst caused by such a blockage are harmless and not a sign of a more serious problem such as cancer. In this case they are considered to be benign.

In a female there are times a hormonal imbalance can cause the growth of sacs on the internal organs. An imbalance in estrogen sometimes causes the  growth of an ovarian or breast cyst. Often hormone therapy can be used to treat these conditions.

In the medical profession some think that chronic inflammation or trauma can be the cause of cysts. Cysts may be caused when one of these factors causes a depletion of the membranes that cover joints or organs. This may allow the cyst to form.  Infection may cause a breakdown of tissue leading to fluid filled sacs (cysts) to form.

There are times that cysts are related to tumors. This is one reason it is important for someone with cysts to have them checked out by a healthcare professional such as the ones at Outpatient Services East. Many varieties of tumors are harmless but they can sometimes be cancerous. It is not worth it to take the risk?

Because there are so many types of cysts and reasons for them to form it is important for them to be checked out by professionals. Sometimes they can diagnose skin growths just by looking at them. However, there are times a sample of the material in the cyst may need to be sent to a lab for a biopsy to be performed. The biopsy may be used to determine if the growth is benign or cancerous. If other test need to be done your doctor will know and recommend them.

There is no need for you to worry. There are professionals at Outpatient Services East who know what treatment you need if you have a cyst. They will know what test, if any, need to be run in order to treat your cyst.

Contact Us Today at (205) 838-3888