Ganglion cysts are the most common mass or lump in the hand.
They are not cancerous and, in most cases, are harmless. They
occur in various locations, but most frequently develop on the
back of the wrist. These fluid-filled cysts can quickly appear,
disappear, and change size. Many ganglion cysts do not require
treatment. However, if the cyst is painful, interferes with
function, or has an unacceptable appearance, there are several
treatment options available. A ganglion rises out of a joint,
like a balloon on a stalk. It grows out of the tissues
surrounding a joint, such as ligaments, tendon sheaths, and
joint linings. Inside the balloon is a thick, slippery fluid,
similar to the fluid that lubricates your joints. Ganglion cysts
can develop in several of the joints in the hand and wrist,
including both the top and underside of the wrist, as well as
the end joint of a finger, and at the base of a finger. They
vary in size, and in many cases, grow larger with increased
wrist activity. With rest, the lump typic