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Understanding Cancer Detection in Cysts

Learn about the detection of cancerous cysts, how they are diagnosed, and available treatment options. Explore the difference between benign and malignant cysts.

Introduction

Cysts are sac-like structures filled with fluid, air, or other materials, and they can appear in various parts of the body, including skin, organs, and tissues. While most cysts are benign, some can be early warning signs of cancer, making it essential to monitor and evaluate any unusual lumps or growths in the body1. Early detection and screening are important for managing cysts effectively. Imaging technologies, including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), play a vital role in identifying and characterizing cysts.

What are Cysts?

Cysts are closed sac-like structures that can form in various parts of the body, containing fluid, semi-solid material, or gas. These abnormal formations have distinct membranes or walls that separate them from surrounding tissues2. Cysts can develop in almost any type of body tissue and vary in size from microscopic to large structures that might displace internal organs3. They can occur for various reasons, including infections, tumors, parasites, or injuries. 

Types of Cysts and Cancer Risks

Most cysts are benign and harmless, often resolving independently without treatment. However, some cysts have the potential to become malignant. Certain types of cysts, such as cystadenomas and dermoid cysts, carry a higher risk of being cancerous, particularly in postmenopausal women or those with a family history of ovarian cancer4. Cancer-related cysts may form as a defense mechanism following mutations that lead to uncontrolled cellular division5. While the risk of cancer in those with complex ovarian cysts is generally low, it’s higher than in simple cysts6.

How Do You Detect Cancer in Cysts?

Imaging Techniques

CT scans are crucial in detecting cancer in cysts by providing detailed information about their size and structure7. They offer high precision in capturing cyst details and potential cancer markers, allowing for accurate differentiation between benign and malignant formations8.

Detecting cancer in a cyst using CT scans.

MRI scans are particularly effective in highlighting subtle details of cysts, including components that suggest a higher risk of cancer9. Their superior soft-tissue contrast allows for a more nuanced evaluation of cyst characteristics, making them especially useful for assessing pancreatic cysts and masses around the uterus (adnexal masses)10.

Ultrasound can detect features indicative of malignancy, such as irregular solid components, papillary projections, and increased vascularity11. Ultrasound is often the first-line imaging method for young, pregnant, and breastfeeding patients with clinical symptoms.

Other Diagnostic Methods

Biopsies are typically used to confirm malignancy in cysts. This procedure involves removing a sample of the affected tissue or, in some cases, the entire suspicious area for microscopic examination12. Blood tests are also conducted for tumor markers. These play a significant role in cyst evaluation, particularly for ovarian cysts13

Symptoms of Cancerous Cysts

Symptoms of cancerous cysts can be similar to those of benign cysts, making it important to understand the key differences between them. While most cysts are harmless, certain signs may indicate a higher risk of malignancy.

Common Symptoms

Pain is a frequent symptom of both benign and cancerous cysts. For ovarian cysts, this can manifest as pelvic pain ranging from a dull sensation to sharp, severe pain14. Changes in size or shape, particularly rapid growth, can be a concerning sign. Systemic symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or fever may also occur with cancerous cysts15. In the case of ovarian cysts, women might experience bloating, feeling full quickly after eating, and changes in urinary habits.

Red Flags

Persistent growth and irregular borders on imaging are potential red flags for cancerous cysts16,17. Solid components within a cyst may indicate a higher risk of malignancy. Other concerning signs include changes in color, bleeding or oozing, and redness or swelling around the cyst.

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Treatment Options for Cancerous Cysts

Surgical Removal

Surgical removal is often the primary treatment for cancerous cysts. For ovarian cysts, procedures may include bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes) and abdominal hysterectomy (removal of the cervix and uterus)18. Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive technique, is preferred for smaller cysts, while laparotomy may be necessary for larger or potentially cancerous cysts19. In some cases, the entire cyst and surrounding tissue may be removed to ensure complete eradication of cancerous cells.

Detection of a cyst and surgical removal.

Chemotherapy and Radiation

Post-surgical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy are often employed for aggressive or spread cancers. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body and may be given before and after surgery20. Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, can be used to treat advanced cancer or alleviate symptoms like pain21. Chemoradiation, a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, is sometimes used as it can make cancer cells more sensitive to radiation, potentially increasing treatment effectiveness22

Monitoring Benign Cysts

Close monitoring is often recommended for benign cysts or those with low malignancy risk. This involves routine imaging scans, such as ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs, to track any changes in size or structure. Regular check-ups and symptom monitoring are essential to ensure no malignancy develops over time. If a benign cyst causes discomfort or grows significantly, drainage or surgical removal may be considered.

FAQs

Is surgery always necessary for a cancerous cyst?

Surgery is typically recommended for cancerous cysts, but the extent depends on the cancer stage and type. In some cases, the entire affected organ and surrounding tissue may need removal. However, treatment plans are individualized based on factors like age, overall health, and cancer characteristics.

What’s the difference between a cyst and a tumor?

A cyst is a slow-growing sac of tissue filled with substances like fluid, pus, or air and is usually smooth and painless unless it becomes large. Tumors, or neoplasms, can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous); benign tumors grow slowly and don’t spread, while malignant ones grow rapidly, with irregular edges, and can invade other areas. While benign tumors are generally harmless, some, like colon polyps or moles, may later develop into cancer, so regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important.

Are cysts cancerous?

While most cysts are benign, some can, in rare cases, become cancerous. Certain types of cysts carry a higher risk of malignant transformation, especially those with risk factors like a family history of cancer.

Conclusion

Understanding cysts and their potential risks is crucial for early detection and effective management. While most cysts are benign and harmless, some may signal underlying conditions, including cancer. Advanced imaging techniques, biopsies, and blood tests are pivotal in distinguishing benign from malignant cysts and guiding appropriate treatment. Symptoms like pain, rapid growth, or irregular imaging findings warrant prompt evaluation. Treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, depend on the cyst's nature and malignancy risk. Regular monitoring of benign cysts ensures timely intervention if changes occur. Early medical attention and routine check-ups are key to managing cysts and preventing complications.

If you want to be proactive about your health, why not book an Ezra Full-Body Plus scan? We combine MRI with LDCT to catch potential cancer earlier, leveraging AI through the screening process to make it more efficient, affordable, and faster.

References

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8. Anderson MA, Dhami RS, Fadzen CM, et al. CT and MRI features differentiating mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver from pathologically simple cysts. Clin Imaging. 2021;76:46-52. doi:10.1016/j.clinimag.2021.01.036

9. Hong SH, Chung HW, Choi JY, Koh YH, Choi JA, Kang HS. MRI Findings of Subcutaneous Epidermal Cysts: Emphasis on the Presence of Rupture. American Journal of Roentgenology. 2006;186(4):961-966. doi:10.2214/AJR.05.0044

10. Quingalahua E, Al-Hawary MM, Machicado JD. The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in the Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions (PCLs). Diagnostics (Basel). 2023;13(4):585. doi:10.3390/diagnostics13040585

11. SAYASNEH A, EKECHI C, FERRARA L, et al. The characteristic ultrasound features of specific types of ovarian pathology (Review). Int J Oncol. 2014;46(2):445-458. doi:10.3892/ijo.2014.2764

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17. Zhang J, Maimone S, Cornell L, Komforti MK, Letter H. Encapsulated papillary carcinoma of the breast: A case report. Radiol Case Rep. 2023;18(5):1738-1742. doi:10.1016/j.radcr.2023.01.082

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