HAND TUMORS

Ganglion Cysts are the most common tumors of the hand. (Tumor is a word that describes any abnormal growth, regardless of its malignant potential.) They are completely benign in nature, but may cause pain. They typically arise in predictable locations in the wrist and hand. As the name implies, these are fluid-filled masses, the contents of which is a clear, almost gelatinous substance.

Treatment of these, due to their benign nature, is varied: They may be watched or cyst puncture and aspiration may be attempted (however, this is usually not effective long term). Finally, these may be removed surgically.

There are other masses or tumors of the hand that we encounter.  These include:  inclusion cysts, giant cell tumors, etc.  These are benign in nature and the treatment of these is to resect the entirety of the tumor and the patient should be free of disease.  Examples are included under the "Photos and Information" category to the right.