OBJECTIVE: Ganglion cysts are common hand masses. This article will answer three questions that the radiologist is often asked: A mass is palpable; is it a cyst? Pain or neurologic symptoms are present; are they related to a cyst? Surgery is being considered; where precisely are the cyst and its origin located? CONCLUSION: Ultrasound is often sufficient for assessing typical cysts. MRI is performed when atypical features or neurologic symptoms are present and in specific preoperative settings.
OBJECTIVE: Ganglion cysts are common hand masses. This article will answer three questions that the radiologist is often asked: A mass is palpable; is it a cyst? Pain or neurologic symptoms are present; are they related to a cyst? Surgery is being considered; where precisely are the cyst and its origin located? CONCLUSION: Ultrasound is often sufficient for assessing typical cysts. MRI is performed when atypical features or neurologic symptoms are present and in specific preoperative settings.