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Digital Mucous Cyst (DMC)

Article
Skin Care
Diseases & Conditions
+1
Contributed byLester Fahrner, MD+1 moreMar 23, 2021

What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

  • Digital Focal Mucinosis
  • Ganglion of the Distal Interphalangeal Joint
  • Myxoid Cyst

What is Digital Mucous Cyst? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Digital Mucous Cyst (DMC) is a benign condition that occurs on the fingers
  • DMC usually occur as a single lesion
  • Treatment of the condition is by complete excision, which is normally considered curative

Who gets Digital Mucous Cyst? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Both males and females are affected by Digital Mucous Cyst; though it is more common in females than males
  • It commonly occurs in adults during the middle to late period (in their 40s-60s)
  • No racial or ethnic predilection is noted

What are the Risk Factors for Digital Mucous Cyst? (Predisposing Factors)

Currently, no risk factors have been documented for the development of Digital Mucous Cyst.

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Digital Mucous Cyst? (Etiology)

The exact cause for the development of Digital Mucous Cyst is unknown.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Digital Mucous Cyst?

The signs and symptoms of a Digital Mucous Cyst (DMC) include:

  • Digital Mucous Cyst occurs as a single raised painless nodule on the fingers. It is usually present over the distal (furthest away from the body) finger joint. They are also seen at the end of the finger, near the nail bed
  • The most common fingers involved are the index and thumb. It is less common to find a DMC on the toes of the feet
  • The surface of the cyst is shiny, smooth and may show some redness. Generally, these tumors are not painful; though, larger lesions may be painful to touch
  • The tumors are not larger than 2 cm along the greater dimension

How is Digital Mucous Cyst Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Digital Mucous Cyst (DMC( may be as follows:

  • A thorough physical examination with evaluation of medical history
  • Biopsy of the tumor: Examination of the biopsy under a microscope by a pathologist is considered to be gold standard in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis. For DMC, this is almost never required
  • Sometimes an X-ray is done to rule out underlying bone changes

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Digital Mucous Cyst?

  • Complications due to Digital Mucous Cysts are generally rare
  • Infrequently, the skin over the lesion may ulcerate, leading to an infection
  • As the mass becomes larger, the tumor may be painful to touch and present cosmetic issues
  • The cyst is filled with a viscid clear fluid. Some patients routinely puncture the cyst with a needle to make it less conspicuous. This can lead to a joint space infection

How is Digital Mucous Cyst Treated?

Digital Mucous Cyst is a benign condition. A complete surgical excision of the tumor is considered to be the treatment of choice.

How can Digital Mucous Cyst be Prevented?

Currently, there is no method to prevent Digital Mucous Cyst occurrence.

What is the Prognosis of Digital Mucous Cyst? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

  • Digital Mucous Cyst is a benign condition. A complete surgical excision is generally curative
  • The prognosis after complete removal of the lesion is typically excellent

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Digital Mucous Cyst:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/skin-disorders/

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On the Article

Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Lester Fahrner, MD picture
Reviewed by

Lester Fahrner, MD

Chief Medical Officer, DoveMed Team

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