Digital myxoid pseudocyst

What is a digital? myxoid pseudocyst?

A digital myxoid pseudocyst is a bright papule It is located at the end of a finger or toe, near the nail. It is called a pseudocyst because it is not surrounded by a capsule, unlike a true cyst. Also called a myxoid cyst, a mucous cyst, a digitalis ganglion cyst and a digitalis synovial cyst.

What Causes a Digital Myxoid Pseudocyst?

The cyst arises from degeneration in the connective tissue at the top of the last segment of the finger.

There seem to be two variations. The first is a form of focal mucinosis, a condition characterized by abnormal deposits of mucopolysaccharides (mucins) on the skin. The other variation arises from the extension of the lining of the finger joint and is due to osteoarthritis - a type of ganglion. See pathology of a digital myxoid pseudocyst.

What are the clinical features of a digital myxoid pseudocyst?

The digital pseudocyst is semi-translucent, with a smooth and shiny surface. It is most often within one centimeter of the base of the nail. It often causes a groove in the nail. This can be up to several millimeters wide and extend the length of the nail.

The pseudocyst may express sticky, gelatinous fluid (sometimes tinged with blood).

See more images of digital myxoid pseudocysts.

What is the treatment for digital myxoid pseudocyst?

Treatments that can be successful for digital myxoid pseudocyst include:

• Repeatedly pressing firmly on the cyst
• Squeeze its contents (make a hole with a sterile needle)
• Cryotherapy (freezing)

• Steroid injection

• Sclerosant injection
• Surgical removal.

Unfortunately, digital myxoid pseudocysts often recur, regardless of what treatment is used.