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Muco-Cutaneous Cyst
A small nodular single mass that can form on the top of the toe is often times a Muco-Cutaneious Cyst.
These occur most frequently at the joint just behind the toenail. These
are caused by a weakening of the joint capsule, which allows a swelling
to occur. They are firm and rubbery to the touch. Sometimes as the skin
thins due to the stretching pressure of the mass it will appear
translucent. When the mass is broken or punctured, a thick clear fluid
will leak out. If the mass does break open, the area should be kept
clean and free of infection. Once the skin heals the mass will reappear. Treatment Treatment
consists of surgical excision. This can be performed in the doctor's
office under a local anesthesia or in an out patient surgery center.
The procedure is relatively simple but can pose a problem for the
surgeon, as closure of the skin following removal of the mass can be
difficult. Often the surgeon will have to create a skin flap to rotate
over the hole where the mass was removed. This requires a bit more of
an incision than most patients expect. The foot is bandaged in a dry
sterile dressing and the sutures remain in place from 7 to 10 days. The
area must be kept dry during this period of time and a limitation of
activity is advised. Complications associated with the surgery are
infection, delays in healing associated with difficulty in surgically
closing the wound. Draining the mass as a form of treatment is not
advised unless the patient is made aware of the likely recurrence.
Picking the area open at home or attempting to drain it at home is
discouraged. An infection in the area could cause permanent joint
damage or bone infection.
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