Mucous Cyst - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A mucous cyst is a painless, bluish, transparent structure consisting of clear fluid trapped beneath a thin layer of mucous membrane. Cysts in this location are almost always due to underlying osteoarthritis. They are at risk for infection and secondary joint infection because the soft tissue cover is relatively thin. Nail deformities are common because of local pressure of the cyst on the nail bed. Nail deformities may occur as a result of cysts which are not visibly obvious. Surgical treatment is indicated for enlargement with thinning of the overlying skin or for associated nail deformities. Surgery usually involves debridement of arthritic joint spurs as well as removal of the cyst. Surgery has the risks of stiffness, nail bed deformity and possible recurrence of the cyst, as well as other surgical risks. Mucous cysts are common on the inner surface of the lips and appear as a semitransparent fluid-filled vesicle . They are painless but bothersome because people are so aware of irregularities in the mouth. The cysts are thought to be caused by sucking action drawing the mucous membranes between the teeth. Mucous cysts are harmless. If left untreated, however, they can organize and form a permanent bump on the inner surface of the lip.

Causes of Mucous Cyst

Mucous cysts are common. They are painless but can be bothersome because you are so aware of the bumps in your mouth. The cysts are thought to be caused by sucking action drawing the mucous membranes between the teeth. Mucous cysts are harmless. If left untreated, however, they can organize and form a permanent bump on the inner surface of the lip.

Symptoms of Mucous Cyst

Signs and symptoms of Mucous-cyst may include :

• A thin, fluid-filled sac on the inside of the lip .
• The sac is painless, but bothersome .
• The sac can also occur on the tongue, palate, inside the cheeks, and the floor of the mouth.