14 Common Signs & Symptoms of Ganglion Cyst

2.    Development of the Cyst

After the initial stages of swelling and inflammation start to peak, the patient will notice the development of the cyst. The affected area may begin to produce a crown – which is the start of synovial fluid accumulating in the affected area.

Synovial fluid lines the joints and fills joint capsules, providing for the lubrication of cartilage to prevent excessive wear. However, in the case of a ganglion cyst, fluid traps under the surface of the skin, producing what looks like a giant pimple.

In most cases, the edges of the cysts are slightly red, but the discoloration fades after the cyst starts to reach its full size. The cyst may feel spongy, like Jell-O, or it may have a solid feel depending on the size of the growth.

In some cases, patients may develop multiple cysts at the surface of the skin, that all share a common root or stalk to the tissues underneath.