Discovering a new lump or bump can immediately trigger concerns about cancer. It’s common to wonder if it’s a cyst, and how to differentiate between the two..
Being familiar with your body’s appearance is always beneficial, as it allows you to identify any new lumps or bumps.
When you have questions about a lump you’ve noticed on your body, the next best step is to consult your doctor. Serving patients in Atlanta, GA, and Austin, TX, SIE Medical aims to provide clear answers, explain the types of cysts you might encounter, and guide you on when and how to get evaluated by a medical professional.
What is a Cyst?
A cyst is a closed sac-like structure that can form in almost any tissue in the body. It is usually filled with fluid, semi-solid material, or air. Most cysts are benign (non-cancerous), but they can sometimes cause discomfort, interfere with normal function, or, in rare cases, indicate malignancy.
There are many types of cysts, including:
- Epidermoid cysts: Often found on the skin, these are slow-growing and filled with keratin.
- Sebaceous cysts: Arise from blocked sebaceous glands and are generally harmless.
- Ovarian cysts: These are common in women, often forming on or in the ovaries and are often functional, related to the menstrual cycle.
- Breast cysts: Fluid-filled sacs in breast tissue, usually benign, but sometimes requiring evaluation.
- Ganglion cysts: Found near joints or tendons, especially in the wrist, and are rarely cancerous.
Understanding the type of cyst is critical in answering the question: Can a cyst be cancerous?
Can a Cyst Be Cancerous?
The short answer is: yes, but it is uncommon. Most cysts are benign and do not develop into cancer. However, certain features may raise concern for malignancy:
- Rapid growth or a sudden change in size.
- Irregular shape or hard consistency.
- Persistent pain or tenderness.
- Skin changes over the cyst, such as redness, ulceration, or drainage of unusual fluid.
- Location in areas where cysts are less common, like internal organs.
For example, while most ovarian cysts are harmless, complex cysts with solid components may require further evaluation to rule out ovarian cancer. Similarly, breast cysts are usually benign, but a cyst accompanied by a solid mass or abnormal imaging findings may need a biopsy.
By asking if a cyst is cancerous, patients are often seeking clarity on when to worry and what steps to take next.
When and How to Get a Cyst Evaluated
Prompt medical evaluation is essential if you notice a troubling lump or cyst. Here’s what to consider:
- Primary Care Physician or Dermatologist: Your first stop is often a primary care doctor or dermatologist for skin or superficial cysts. They can examine the cyst, perform imaging if needed, and determine whether removal or biopsy is necessary.
- Gynecologist: Women with ovarian cysts should consult a gynecologist, especially if cysts are large, persistent, or accompanied by pain or menstrual irregularities.
- Radiologist or Specialist Imaging Centers: Many cysts are evaluated with ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans to determine composition and risk factors for malignancy.
- Oncologist Consultation: Should imaging or biopsy reveal abnormal or cancerous cells, an oncologist will provide guidance on treatment options and subsequent steps.
At SIE Medical, we can help coordinate care, ensuring that patients in Austin and Atlanta receive timely evaluations from the appropriate specialists.
Steps to Take at Home
While waiting for an appointment, monitor the cyst carefully:
- Note any changes in size, shape, or color.
- Avoid squeezing or trying to drain the cyst yourself.
- Keep a record of symptoms such as pain, tenderness, or fever.
These details are helpful for your doctor and can guide decisions about imaging, biopsy, or removal.
Understanding Risk Factors
Certain factors may increase the likelihood that a cyst could be cancerous:
- Age: Older adults have a slightly higher risk of malignant cysts.
- Family history: A family history of cancer, especially breast, ovarian, or skin cancers, warrants closer attention.
- Location: Cysts in internal organs like the ovaries, kidneys, or liver may require more careful evaluation.
- Persistence: Cysts that do not resolve over time or continue to grow should always be examined.
Even with these risk factors, it is important to remember that most cysts are benign. Being informed and proactive is key to managing your health.
See Us Today
While most cysts are benign, some may necessitate medical assessment to exclude malignancy. A healthcare professional can help identify the type of cyst, guide you on monitoring changes, and inform you about potential warning signs.
With locations in Austin and Atlanta, SIE Medical emphasizes preventative medicine. That’s why we handle cysts, whether cancerous or benign, with utmost care—just like everything else we do.
Call our offices today: 404.236.6234 (Atlanta) & 512.883.1700 (Austin).
