Are you dealing with a small bump just under the base of your toenail on one of your toes? This formation is known as a mucoid cyst or a digital myxoid cyst, and even if it’s not painful, it can be uncomfortable and unsightly. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at why these cysts form and how Dr. Silverman can help you treat a mucoid cyst.
Mucoid Cyst Formation And Symptoms
A mucoid cyst is a benign lump that tends to form just below the nailbed on a person’s toe or finger. While there is no known direct cause of mucoid cysts, they tend to be linked to degeneration of the synovial tissue around a joint in the digit. They are also more common in people between the ages of 40-70 and are twice as likely to develop in women.
While these lumps are benign in nature, that doesn’t mean they are always easy to ignore. They can be uncomfortable or unsightly on the hands or feet, and can become infected if they are regularly irritated. Symptoms can vary, and while some are asymptomatic, others can be painful and grow larger at a very slow pace. They tend to grow to about 5-8mm in size, about the size of a pencil eraser.
You may want to pop the cyst, and we’ve even heard old wive’s tales about hitting the cyst a few times with a heavy book like the Bible, but you don’t want to do that. Smacking or intentionally popping the cyst only increases your risk of infection, and it typically returns when addressed in this manner.
Diagnosing And Treating Mucoid Cysts
If you believe that you’re dealing with a mucoid cyst, you’re probably right, because they can be diagnosed with the naked eye, but if you want clarity, head to your doctor’s office. Fortunately, mucoid cysts typically don’t require active treatment, and the cysts do tend to eventually resolve on their own.
That being said, if the cyst is on your toe and it’s constantly being agitated when you’re wearing shoes, active treatment may be best. When active treatments are required, the most common techniques include:
Cryotherapy – The cyst is drained and then liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze and remove the cyst.
Infrared Coagulation – This technique carefully burns away the cyst.
Surgery – A foot surgeon can manually excise the cyst.