• Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Send a Message
  • (301) 515-0900
Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics - Maryland
  • Online Bill Pay
  • Patient Portal
  • Schedule Now
  • Home
  • About
  • Providers
    • Our Providers
    • John Christoforetti, MD, FAAOS
    • Gary Feldman, DPM, FACFAS
    • Peter G. Fitzgibbons, MD
    • James S. Gardiner, MD
    • Wayne J. Olan, MD
    • Christopher S. Raffo, MD
    • Laura Baker, PA-C
    • Jessica O’Keefe, PA-C
    • Meet the Staff
  • Conditions
    • Hand & Wrist
      • Hand & Wrist Arthritis
      • Hand & Wrist Tendonitis
      • Hand & Wrist Fractures
      • Forearm Fractures
      • Hand Dislocation
      • Hand & Wrist Tendon Laceration
      • Dupuytren’s Contracture
      • Trigger Finger
      • Mucous Cyst
      • Retinacular Cyst
      • Skier’s Thumb
      • Mallet Finger
      • Carpal Tunnel
      • De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
      • Scaphoid Fracture
      • TFCC Injury
    • Elbow
      • Elbow Fractures
      • Elbow Arthritis
      • Cubital Tunnel
      • Golfer’s Elbow
      • Tennis Elbow
      • Little League Elbow
      • Radial Tunnel
      • Biceps Tendon Rupture
      • Olecranon Bursitis
      • UCL Injury
    • Shoulder
      • Rotator Cuff Injuries
      • Frozen Shoulder
      • Shoulder Instability
      • Clavicle Fracture
      • Humerus Fracture
      • Biceps Tendonitis
      • Shoulder Impingement
    • Spine
      • Lower Back Pain
      • Neck Pain
      • Degenerative Disc Disease
      • Spondylosis
      • Sciatica
    • Knee
      • ACL & PCL Tear
      • Knee Osteoarthritis
      • Meniscus Tears
      • Patellar Tendon Rupture
      • Quadricep Tendon Rupture
      • Baker’s Cyst
      • Patellar Tendonitis
      • Osgood-Schlatter Disease
      • Patellar Fracture
      • Patellar Instability
    • Hip
      • Hip Labral Tears
      • Hip Impingement
      • Gluteus Tendon Injuries
      • Hip Osteoarthritis
      • Trochanteric Bursitis
      • Hamstring Injury
    • Foot & Ankle
      • Foot & Ankle Fractures
      • Plantar Fasciitis
      • Metatarsalgia
      • Plantar Warts
      • Ankle Sprains
      • Achilles Tendonitis
      • Heel Spur
      • Turf Toe
      • Morton’s Neuroma
      • Stress Fractures
      • Bunions
  • Services
    • PRP Injections
    • Orthopedic Surgery
    • X-Ray
    • Acute Injury Management
    • Osteoarthritis Treatment
    • Dupuytren’s Contracture Management
    • Custom Durable Medical Equipment
    • Hand/Occupational Therapy
    • Ultrasound
    • Joint Injections
    • Epidural Steroid Injections
    • Sports Medicine
  • Physical Therapy
    • Physical Therapy Staff
    • Hand/Occupational Therapy Staff
  • Patient Resources
    • Blog
    • Patient Education
      • Post-Operative Instructions
      • Post-Operative Hip Instructions
    • FAQs
    • Patient Forms
    • Patient Portal
    • Notifications
  • Testimonials
  • Locations
    • Bethesda
    • Germantown
    • Rockville
  • Contact Us
Conditions Treated Hand & Wrist Mucous Cyst

Mucous Cyst

A mucous cyst, also referred to as a digital mucous cyst, is a small, fluid-filled sac that commonly appears near the nail bed on the fingers or toes. These cysts typically develop at the distal interphalangeal joint, often due to joint degeneration or trauma. They are usually translucent, ranging in size from a few millimeters to a centimeter, and contain a jelly-like or viscous fluid. While generally painless, they may cause discomfort or cosmetic concern, especially if they increase in size or press on adjacent tissues. Proper diagnosis and evaluation are crucial to distinguish them from other hand lesions.

The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division is dedicated to providing specialized care and advanced treatment options for conditions like mucous cysts.

FAQs About Mucous Cysts

What causes mucous cysts?

Mucous cysts can be caused by various factors, including trauma to the oral cavity such as lip biting, lip sucking, piercings, poor dental hygiene, and osteoarthritis-related issues like bone spurs or joint inflammation.

What are the symptoms of mucous cysts?

Symptoms of mucous cysts can include swelling, pain, and the formation of a fluid-filled sac. In the case of oral mucous cysts, they may also cause discomfort or interference with normal oral functions.

How are mucous cysts diagnosed?

Mucous cysts are typically diagnosed through physical examination by a healthcare professional, and in some cases, imaging studies like X-rays may be used to assess underlying joint and bone conditions.

What are the treatment options for mucous cysts?

Treatment options for mucous cysts may include observation, warm compresses, oral care improvement, aspiration of the cyst, steroid injections, or surgical excision, depending on the severity and location of the cyst.

Are mucous cysts contagious?

Mucous cysts are not contagious as they are not caused by infectious agents but rather by trauma or underlying joint conditions.

Can mucous cysts go away on their own?

While mucous cysts have the potential to resolve on their own, this outcome isn't guaranteed for everyone. Factors such as the size, location, and underlying cause of the cyst can influence whether it will spontaneously regress or persist, making it important to monitor and seek medical advice if needed.

Do mucous cysts always require medical treatment?

Although some mucous cysts may not necessitate medical intervention, particularly if they're small and asymptomatic, others may cause discomfort, restrict hand function, or indicate an underlying issue that requires attention from a healthcare provider. Seeking medical evaluation ensures proper diagnosis and appropriate management tailored to individual needs.

Can mucous cysts reoccur after treatment?

Mucous cysts have a tendency to reoccur after treatment, especially if the underlying factors contributing to their development are not adequately addressed. Recurrence can occur if there's ongoing trauma or irritation to the affected area or if the cyst wasn't completely removed during previous treatment.

When should I see a doctor about my mucous cysts?

It's essential to consult a doctor if you experience persistent or worsening symptoms associated with mucous cysts. This includes pain, swelling, redness, changes in the appearance or size of the cyst, or any interference with hand function or daily activities. Early medical intervention can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate management of the condition.

  • Peter G. Fitzgibbons, MDPeter G. Fitzgibbons, MD
    Board-Certified Surgeon & Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialist

Mucous Cyst Treatment in Montgomery County, Maryland

Seeking treatment for a mucous cyst in Maryland? Discover specialized care at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Connect with us today at (301) 515-0900 or conveniently schedule your appointment online to meet with a physician at our Bethesda or Germantown locations. Trust our experienced team to provide personalized solutions tailored to your needs, ensuring effective relief and restoring comfort to your hand.

Orthopedic foot doctor wearing white latex gloves examining a patient's big toe.

Other Hand & Wrist Conditions

  • Hand & Wrist Arthritis
  • Hand & Wrist Tendonitis
  • Hand & Wrist Fractures
  • Forearm Fractures
  • Hand Dislocation
  • Hand & Wrist Tendon Laceration
  • Dupuytren's Contracture
  • Trigger Finger
  • Mucous Cyst
  • Retinacular Cyst
  • Skier’s Thumb
  • Mallet Finger
  • Carpal Tunnel
  • De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
  • Scaphoid Fracture
  • TFCC Injury 
Find a Location Schedule Now

Explore Other Conditions We Treat

  • Hand & Wrist

    Hand & Wrist

  • Elbow

    Elbow

  • Shoulder

    Shoulder

  • Spine

    Spine

  • Hip

    Hip

  • Knee

    Knee

  • Foot & Ankle

    Foot & Ankle

Footer

Patient Resources

Access resources to understand your condition and orthopedic procedures better.

Learn More

Insurances

We accept most major insurance plans. Please contact us if your plan is not listed.

See Full List

Blog

Explore our blog for new insights on orthopedic advances.

Read More

  • Home
  • About
  • Providers
  • Conditions
  • Services
  • Physical Therapy
  • Patient Resources
  • Testimonials
  • Locations
  • Contact

Locations

Bethesda Office
6710 A Rockledge Dr., Suite 130
Bethesda, MD 20817

Germantown Office
19847 Century Boulevard, Suite 205
Germantown, MD 20874

Rockville Office
1071 Seven Locks Rd.
Rockville, MD 20854

Connect with Us

Accessibility Statement Privacy Policy Sitemap

Copyright © · The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division · All Rights Reserved
iHealthspot Medical Website Design and Medical Marketing by iHealthSpot.com

The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division is your premier orthopedic clinic located in Germantown, Bethesda, and Rockville, MD, offering comprehensive care for a wide range of orthopedic conditions through PRP Therapy, Orthopedic Surgery, X-Ray, Acute Injury Management, Osteoarthritis Treatment, Dupuytren’s Contracture Management, Custom Durable Medical Equipment, Hand/Occupational Therapy, Ultrasound, Joint Injections, Physical Therapy, and Epidural Steroid Injections.