Digital Mucous Cyst (Myxoid Cyst)

Serving Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Grimsby and surrounding areas

Digital Mucous Cyst (Myxoid Cyst):

  • The cause is not known, but may be associated with osteoarthritis in the fingers or toes
  • The “cyst” appears as a clear bump, usually 3 mm to 5 mm in diameter at the base of a fingernail or toenail
  • Sometimes digital mucous cysts are located over the joints of the fingers or toes
  • The “cyst” is filled with a jelly-like substance
  • Is not dangerous
  • Is not cancerous and will not develop into a cancer
  • Is not contagious
  • May affect the toenail, producing a groove or dent in the nail
    • This is usually reversible after the lesion is treated
  • Drainage and Liquid Nitrogen:
    • The cyst is opened with a small needle and the jelly-like contents are expressed by gently squeezing the cyst
    • After removing the cyst contents, the cyst is sprayed with a cold freezing spray
    • This causes the treated area to become red and swollen and sometimes a crust may form
    • You may bathe or shower after the treatment
      • A bandage may be worn, but this is optional
    • It may take 3 to 4 visits for liquid nitrogen treatments to eliminate a digital mucous cyst
    • After a treatment, the area will become swollen and crusted
    • This will heal in about 2 weeks time
    • You may bathe or shower normally after a treatment
  • Intralesional Steroids (Cortisone Injections):
    • If liquid nitrogen doesn’t work, the cyst may be injected with a steroid (cortisone) solution
    • The cortisone is injected directly into the affected area with a small needle
    • Only one injection is required to treat the entire lesion
    • The main side effect from the injections includes, but is not limited to: is thinning of the skin in the area of injection, although this is uncommon and reversible
    • Several treatments may be required
  • Surgery:
    • If the cyst is resistant to treatment it can be cut out.
    • This is usually done by a plastic surgeon
  • Treatment of digital mucous cysts is an OHIP insured service
  • A referral from a doctor is necessary to make your first appointment

What if you are interested to learn more?

If you would like to learn more please phone the aesthetic centre directly at (905) 549-7873 to book a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable technicians or

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