Cyst facts for kids

A cyst is like a small, closed sac or pouch that can form inside your body. Think of it as a tiny balloon filled with air, fluid, or even a soft, jelly-like material. It has its own wall, which makes it separate from the normal tissues around it.

Sometimes, the cells that make up the wall of a cyst are a bit different from the regular cells nearby. Cysts are usually not harmful, and many people have them without even knowing. They are different from an abscess, which is a collection of pus (a sign of infection). Sometimes a cyst can go away on its own, but if it doesn't or if it causes problems, a doctor might need to remove it.

What is a Cyst?

A cyst is a small, enclosed pocket of tissue. It's like a tiny bubble that forms in your body. This bubble has its own distinct wall, which separates its contents from the surrounding body parts. Cysts can appear almost anywhere in the body, from your skin to internal organs.

What Can Be Inside a Cyst?

The inside of a cyst can hold different things. Some cysts are filled with air, while others contain fluids, like water or oil. Some might even have a semi-solid material, like a thick gel. The type of material inside often depends on where the cyst is located and what caused it to form.

Do Cysts Need Treatment?

Many cysts are harmless and don't cause any pain or problems. In some cases, a cyst might even disappear on its own over time. However, if a cyst grows large, causes discomfort, or if a doctor is concerned about it, they might suggest removing it. This is usually done with a small surgery. The decision to treat a cyst depends on its type, where it is, and if it's bothering you.

Images for kids

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  Relative numbers of different types of ovarian cysts

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  Relative numbers of odontogenic cysts (cysts that form near teeth)

See also

In Spanish: Quiste para niños