Upon receiving a medical report and seeing the word "cyst", many people become anxious, fearing it might be a tumor or could potentially turn cancerous.
So, what exactly is a cyst?
A cyst is a sac-like structure filled with fluid or semi-fluid, which can occur in various organs such as the liver, kidneys, ovaries, and thyroid. Jin Hong, director of the Health Examination Center of Hainan Chengmei Hospital, said that public awareness of cysts often exhibits a polarization problem, either being overly panicked or completely ignored. In fact, most cysts are benign lesions, so there is no need for excessive anxiety, but there are also some special cases that require special attention.
So, which cysts need special attention and treatment?
I. Rapid enlargement of cyst in a short period of time
Cysts usually grow slowly. Director Jin Hong reminds us that if the cyst volume increases significantly within a few months during follow-up, such as from 3 cm to over 5 cm in diameter, it should be taken seriously. Rapid growth may indicate internal bleeding, infection, or even a very low probability of malignant transformation. Even if the risk of malignant transformation is low, it cannot be taken lightly.
Taking liver cysts as an example: Normal liver cysts typically do not grow by more than 1 centimeter per year. If the diameter increases by ≥2 centimeters within half a year, it is considered abnormal growth. It is recommended to visit a specialized hospital for further examination to identify the cause and eliminate any risks.
II. Cysts accompanied by significant discomfort symptoms
Discomfort may occur when a cyst compresses tissues or presents complications. Director Jin Hong stated that any physical abnormalities should never be ignored, as they may indicate that the cyst is affecting organ function. Symptoms of cysts vary depending on their location and need to be identified accordingly.
Director Jin Hong explained that kidney cysts can compress the renal parenchyma, potentially causing subtle pain and soreness in the waist. In severe cases, they can affect renal function, leading to proteinuria and hematuria. Larger ovarian cysts are prone to cause abdominal pain and distension. If they twist or rupture, they can suddenly cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and even shock, requiring emergency surgery. Larger thyroid cysts can compress the trachea and esophagus, causing difficulty in swallowing, hoarseness, and breathing difficulties. If these symptoms occur, it is necessary to seek medical evaluation and treatment as soon as possible.
III. The nature of the cyst is unclear or there are "malignant signals" present
Some cysts exhibit atypical imaging findings, making it impossible to determine their benign or malignant nature. Director Jin Hong reminds us that such "cysts of unknown nature" require close monitoring and further examination to clarify their nature.
More importantly, if the report contains descriptions such as irregular thickening of the cyst wall, solid components within the cyst, calcification, or abundant blood flow signals, it may indicate malignant signals. Even if there are no symptoms, it is necessary to seek medical attention at a specialized hospital as soon as possible for enhanced CT, magnetic resonance imaging, or tumor marker testing. If necessary, a biopsy should be performed for pathological analysis, which is the gold standard for determining malignant transformation.
IV. Cysts in special populations or specific locations
Regarding cysts in special populations and locations, Director Jin Hong specifically reminds us: "Pregnant women, the elderly, and those with a family history of malignant tumors should be closely monitored, even if their cysts are small and asymptomatic. Hormonal changes in pregnant women may lead to rapid growth of ovarian cysts, affecting fetal development or causing dystocia, so a plan must be formulated according to medical advice. The elderly have decreased functionality, and the risk of malignant transformation of cysts is higher, so the frequency and items of follow-up examinations should be more stringent."
She also added, "Although cysts in the pancreas, spleen, and other parts have a low incidence rate, their malignant transformation probability is much higher than that of other parts. Once discovered, regardless of their size, it is necessary to consult a specialist immediately to comprehensively assess the risks and avoid ignoring the danger due to their rarity."
Facing cysts, scientific treatment is crucial. After discovering a cyst during a physical examination, it is important to first consult a specialist with the report to clarify its location, size, nature, and whether treatment is necessary. If immediate treatment is not required, follow the doctors advice and have a follow-up examination every 6-12 months. If any of the aforementioned situations occur, it is recommended to visit a specialized hospital for further examination and treatment. Standardized management can maximize the protection of health and avoid adverse consequences caused by cognitive bias.
Hospital Health Management Center
The Health Management Center of the hospital relies on Hainan Cancer Hospital and Hainan Chengmei Hospital. In order to implement the "Healthy China" strategy, expand the connotation and extension of traditional physical examination services, transform and extend from disease treatment to health management, and carry out health management services, it is committed to building the most professional health management institution. The center adheres to the service principle of "professional authority, customized exclusivity, and safeguarding health", and establishes a complete set of professional, refined, and standardized service processes in accordance with the central leaders healthcare system. It provides professional services to high-end individuals such as provincial and ministerial leaders, foreign VIPs, business elites, and social celebrities.