•  
  •  

Cyst

A cyst is a sac-shaped structure in the body. Cysts usually are filled with fluid, which may be blood, clear fluid, or pus.

A cyst can be normal, abnormal, or, in rare cases, cancerous. In some cases, a cyst may be drained either with a needle or by cutting it open, or it may be removed entirely.

Last Revised: February 7, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine & Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.