Myxoid Cysts​

I.          Definition:
 
A myxoid cyst is a soft rubbery nodule, skin colored or translucent and usually occurs near the end of the fingers or toes.   Myxoid cysts sometimes cause a groove to form in the nail and at times are painful.  Myxoid cysts are usually 1/4 to 3/4 inches in size.  Sometimes they burst discharging a clear thick fluid.  These cysts are more common in women and are more frequent in people over the age of 40.
 
 
II.          Causes:
 
·          Myxoid cysts often appear at the site of an old injury, sites of friction, and at sites of minor trauma.
 
·          Myxoid cysts are not derived from the joint or tendon sheath.  They are not synovial cysts nor are they ganglia as commonly believed.
 
 
III.          Treatment:
 
·          Myxoid cysts do not need to be treated unless they are causing discomfort.  Sometimes they will go away by themselves.
 
·          Myxoid cysts may be frozen with liquid nitrogen leaving a flat white scar. 
 
·          Cortisone injections are sometimes effective in making a myxoid cyst go away.
 
·          Myxoid cysts can be removed surgically, but they have a high rate of recurrence.