Ganglion cyst

What it is

It is a myxematous degeneration of the tendon or capsule of joint, most commonly in the dorsum of the hand.

The case is a 20 year old lady who presents with a painless swelling in the dorsum of her wrist, and in the exam list it appears only as a scenario of Ganglion cyst question asked for diagnosis.

How it is examined

Examine it as any swelling, and do full hand examination to make sure it is not restricting the movement.

Two signs are specific to it: fluctuation and trans-illumination. Those two are what a swelling full of fluid gives and a solid one does not, which is why they are the two that are named.

What is needed, and what is not

No need for investigations. It is a clinical diagnosis. X-ray and US can be done if in doubt, and that is all.