Cysts are benign fluid-filled or tissue-filled sacs that develop on or within the body. In children, one disease-- polycystic kidney disease--is associated with cyst formation in the kidneys. Other cysts usually develop in response to repetitive stress placed upon the skin, injury or congenital malformation and include cysts such as Baker, ganglion, dermoid and pilonidal cysts.
Polycystic Kidney Disease
Polycystic kidney disease, or PKD, is a genetic disorder. It is characterized by the formation of clusters of cysts within the kidneys. The cysts initially swell the kidneys, resulting in decreased kidney function, high blood pressure and kidney infection. A complication is the excessive release of a hormone called erythropoietin into the blood stream, triggering increased red blood cell production; this increases the concentration of red blood cells in the blood, which thickens the blood, slowing its ability to move throughout the vascular system. Treatment focuses upon controlling the high blood pressure and kidney infections with medications. Over time, patients with PKD suffer kidney failure, according the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Baker's Cyst
Most joint spaces are enclosed by a synovial membrane; within the synovial membrane is synovial fluid. A Baker's cyst is a buildup of synovial fluid behind the knee. To the touch, the cyst feels like a water-filled balloon: soft and squishy. If the synovial membrane remains intact, the knee is painless and exhibits slight swelling. If the synovial membrane ruptures, pain, swelling, redness and bruising occur around the knee. In children, Baker's cysts usually disappear over time. Treatment to decrease swelling includes rest, ice and elevation of the knee, according to Cedars-Sinai Hospital.
Ganglion Cyst
Ganglion cysts are a common disorder characterized by lumps that form on the hands or wrists. This type of cyst is benign and can enlarge or disappear. They are usually not treated unless the cyst is painful, limits mobility or is aesthetically displeasing to the patient. Ganglion cysts can be treated with aspiration, where the inner fluid is removed with a syringe, or surgically using a local anesthetic, notes Penn State University.
Dermoid Cyst
A dermoid cyst is a sac under the skin that contains skin cells normally found in the outer layers of the skin. Usually found on the head, neck or face, dermoid cysts are a congenital malformation of the skin layers. The cyst will appear flesh toned or slightly yellowish in color and is treated with a simple surgery. A CT scan or MRI may be ordered to clearly diagnose the origin of the cyst, according to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Pilonidal Cyst
According to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, pilonidal cysts are connected to sinus tracts that are typically filled with pus. This type of cyst is most commonly observed between the two buttocks, at the end of the tailbone. Formed by the collection of loose hair and sweat, in response to increased pressure and friction from sitting, pilonidal cysts are removed and the incision kept open to allow the infection to drain from the accompanying sinuses.
