A simple bone cyst is a fluid-filled lesion in the bone, most commonly found in the long bones of children but can also occur in adults. It is typically benign but can cause complications and is treated by removing the cyst. The cause is unknown but may be related to growth plates, circulation problems, or repeated trauma. Symptoms include pain and swelling, and it is typically discovered through imaging tests. Treatment options include steroid injections or surgical removal.
A unicameral bone cyst is known colloquially as a simple bone cyst. Simply, this is a fluid-filled lesion in the bone. It is typically most common in the long bones of children, but can also occur in other bone types and in adults. Depending on the severity of the cyst, it can cause symptoms or complications. Treatment often includes removing the cyst.
A simple bone cyst occurs when fluid fills a hollow cavity in a bone. Serous fluid is the most common type of fluid found in the cavity, but blood may also be found in some cases. This cyst is typically surrounded by compressed fibrous tissue.
Long bones are the type of bone in which simple bone cysts most commonly develop. Simple bone cysts are most typically found in the bones of the upper arm, known as the humerus, and the bones of the thighs, known as the femurs. Also, this type of cyst tends to form in the metaphysis. This is the section of bone that is where the long shaft of bone connects with the end.
Children aged 15 to 15 are most commonly affected by these types of cysts. Older children and adults, however, can also be diagnosed with a simple bone cyst. These individuals, however, are more likely to develop the cyst in flat bones, including the pelvic bones and ribs. It’s also possible for a simple bone cyst to form in the jaw or heel bones in older individuals.
The cause of a simple bone cyst is usually not known. Some doctors, however, have some theories. Some believe that these cysts may be caused by a growth plate or a circulation problem. There’s also some evidence that repeated trauma, such as numerous broken bones, can also put a person at risk for developing a simple bone cyst.
Typically, a simple bone cyst is considered benign. This means that it usually does not affect any other location in the body other than the bone that contains it. In some cases, however, it may become larger. This can cause pressure to build up within the bone and lead to a fracture, but this doesn’t happen in all cases.
There are usually no symptoms with a minor simple bone cyst. If a cyst begins to fracture the bone, however, an individual will typically feel some pain. There may also be swelling in the area.
Unless it gets worse and causes problems, a simple bone cyst typically goes undetected. This type of bone cyst is typically discovered using imaging tests, such as X-rays or computer topographic scans. Steroid injections are sometimes used as a treatment for this condition, as they can cause the cyst to disappear. Other times, a small hole is drilled in the bone and the cyst is removed. After this procedure, donor bone is inserted to close the hole.
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