|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Definition: | A cyst is a closed pocket or pouch of tissue. It can be filled with air, fluid, pus, or other material.
|
| Considerations: | Cysts may form within any tissue in the body. Cysts within the lung generally are air-filled, while cysts involving the lymph system or kidneys are fluid-filled. Migrating parasites such as trichinosis, dog tapeworm (toxocara canis), and echinococcus form cysts within muscle, liver, brain tissue, the lungs, and the eye.
Cysts are common on the skin and develop as a result of infection, clogging of sebaceous glands, or around foreign bodies. They can also result from developmental abnormalities such as a pilonidal cyst (pilonidal dimple).
|
|
|
Review Date: 4/17/2003
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
 |
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the
American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's
accreditation program
is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability,
verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction
for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s
editorial process.
A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles
of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or
for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should
be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911
for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only --
they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc.
Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
|
|