What Causes Cysts To Form?

By Amanda Clark

You have just left the doctor's office where you were told that you have a cyst. If you are like most people, you are wondering what causes cysts. To find that answer, you first need to know what a cyst is.

Cysts are sac like structures that are somewhat like a blister, but are formed inside the body. They may cither contain a gas, liquid or even semi-solid type substance. They form inside a tissue and may be found anywhere in your body. Cysts may be of various sizes, from microscopic to large enough to displace the organs of the body.

In the discipline of anatomy, the term cyst can be used to refer to normal sacs found in your body, such as your bladder. However, in this article we will use the term only in reference to the abnormal growths.

Cysts are not normal parts of the tissues where they are found. They have a distinct skin like membrane called a cyst wall. If this sac has been filled with pus, it is not technically a cyst but it is an abscess.

Cysts can be caused by tumors, wear and tear, genetic conditions or many other conditions. Ask your doctor why your cyst formed.

Most cysts that form are benign and may be caused by a duct or other body outlet that has been plugged, but some can be tumors or could be formed in a tumor. This type of cyst may even be malignant.

If a cyst is close to the surface of the skin, you may actually see an abnormal looking growth. Cysts formed deep in the body may be never be discovered without the use of advanced medical tools such as MRI or CAT scans.

Women may find cysts in the mammary glands when doing a self exam. These cysts can often be painful.

If a cyst is in the brain, it may cause headaches or other symptoms. - 30428

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here