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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does SLE cause cysts on fingers at joints or nail beds?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
February 11
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A MyLupusTeam Member

I have had this happen a few times on my thumbs. I assumed it was from Reynaud's. 🤔

February 11
A MyLupusTeam Member

I'm not sure if it's lupus related or not, but I get these kinds of cysts all over my body and have for a really long time. Mine are about dime-sized and hard to the touch and full of the white pus. Around the time of my monthly cycle, I would get between 1-3 on my face. I think it was cystic acne? Either way, I blame everything on lupus even it's not scientifically accurate lbvs.

February 11
A MyLupusTeam Member

I have gotten 3 cysts since my diagnosis in the early 2000s. But they aren't ganglion cysts. When I have them excised, they are filled with white pus. One was between my breasts, one was next to my rectum, and now I have another approximately in the same area. What causes these?

February 11
MyLupusTeam

Does SLE cause cysts on fingers at joints or nail beds?

SLE doesn't directly cause ganglion cysts on your fingers or joints, but there may be an indirect connection. While lupus primarily affects your immune system and commonly causes joint inflammation and pain, it doesn't specifically trigger these fluid-filled lumps.

That Show Full Answer

Does SLE cause cysts on fingers at joints or nail beds?

SLE doesn't directly cause ganglion cysts on your fingers or joints, but there may be an indirect connection. While lupus primarily affects your immune system and commonly causes joint inflammation and pain, it doesn't specifically trigger these fluid-filled lumps.

That said, some people with lupus do develop ganglion cysts. One MyLupusTeam member shared, "Yes, I had a ganglion cyst on my right wrist. I am told it's common in lupus."

What causes ganglion cysts?

Doctors aren't entirely sure what causes them, but they believe these cysts develop when fluid leaks from nearby joints or tendons. They might appear or grow larger due to:
* Joint overuse
* Minor injuries to the area
* General joint inflammation

In one study of people with SLE, ganglion cysts were found in only 3.8 percent of participants, though joint inflammation was much more common. More research is needed to understand the exact relationship between lupus and these cysts.

The good news is that ganglion cysts are typically harmless and painless. If you notice a new lump, it's worth having your rheumatologist check it out to confirm what it is and whether any treatment is needed.

February 11
A MyLupusTeam Member

CosmicKaren, being that I got my Lupus after my menopause, I can't blame it on that, but all I can do is either sit in a bath with Epsom salts and see if they go away or pop or go to my dermatologist and ask for help. I am afraid they won't want to do it. 😟

February 14

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