What are these little cysts appearing on your hands, wrists, arms, and legs?
The small cysts you're noticing could be a few different things. The most common type near joints are ganglion cysts - fluid-filled lumps that typically appear near the wrists, hands, fingers, ankles, and feet. They're usually harmless and painless Show Full Answer
What are these little cysts appearing on your hands, wrists, arms, and legs?
The small cysts you're noticing could be a few different things. The most common type near joints are ganglion cysts - fluid-filled lumps that typically appear near the wrists, hands, fingers, ankles, and feet. They're usually harmless and painless, ranging in size from pea-sized to over an inch.
Another possibility is sebaceous cysts, which occur when oil glands get clogged. These appear as round lumps under the skin and are usually benign.
While lupus doesn't directly cause ganglion cysts, people with lupus do sometimes develop them. In one study, ganglion cysts were found in about 4% of people with lupus who had their wrists evaluated. However, there's no evidence that lupus specifically causes these cysts.
It's worth noting that people with lupus are more prone to skin issues and infections due to both the condition itself and immunosuppressive medications. This can sometimes lead to bumps or cysts on the skin.
Since you're finding these on multiple areas of your body, it's a good idea to have your rheumatologist or healthcare provider examine them. They can determine exactly what type of cysts they are and whether any treatment is needed. Most cysts don't require removal unless they cause pain, limit movement, or show signs of infection.
February 17
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