Colloid Cyst - Causes and Signs of Colloid Cyst

There are mainly two types of colloid cysts:

• A colloid cyst in the brain is a thin jelly-like mass with encapsulated contents. It is located in the area of the third ventricle. It is not defined as a brain tumor and manifests itself as a hereditary disease. It leads to the development of hydrocephalus due to blockage of the flow of circulating fluid;

• A colloid cyst in the thyroid gland is an area of thyroid tissue with increased density, in which there are cavities. It does not affect the functional activity of the gland, but can lead to various pathologies. Rarely has a malignant character.

Causes

The reasons for the development of colloid cysts depend on their type.

The reasons for the development of a colloid cyst in the brain:

• heredity (the bookmark occurs at the stage of embryogenesis);
• frequent fatigue;
• frequent stress;
• bad habits;
• poor nutrition;
• lack of physical activity;
• short sleep.

The reasons for the development of a colloid cyst in the thyroid gland:

• heredity;
• lack of iodine in the body;
• the influence of toxic substances;
• constant neuro-emotional overload;
• inflammatory processes in the thyroid gland;
• thyroid injuries;
• violation of the daily routine;
• poor nutrition;
• acid-base imbalance;
• excessive physical activity;
• the presence of bad habits (smoking, alcohol abuse);
• frequent pregnancies;
• poor sleep;
• cold climate;
• X-ray radiation;
• sedentary lifestyle.

Symptoms

Symptoms of colloid cysts depend on its type.

Symptoms of a colloid cyst in the brain appear with the development of hydrocephalus:

• persistent headache;
• memory impairment for the current event;
• nausea and vomiting with headaches;
• decreased visual acuity;
• the presence of edema of the optic nerve;
• nystagmus;
• loss of consciousness;
• tinnitus;
• mental disorders;
• gait disturbance;
• coordination impairment;
• increased tendon reflexes;
• tremor;
• rapid heartbeat;
• fever;
• increased sweating;
• irritability.

Usually, the formation of a colloid cyst in the thyroid gland is asymptomatic. Symptoms begin to appear due to an increase in the size of the cyst. If several cysts are detected, nodular colloid goiter is diagnosed.

Symptoms of colloid cysts in the thyroid gland:

• a lump in the throat;
• sore throat;
• cough;
• difficulty breathing and swallowing;
• hoarseness;
• pain in the neck and when pressing on it;
• a soft lump can be felt in the thyroid gland;
• change in the appearance of the neck.

Diagnosis of the disease

Diagnosis of colloid cysts depends on their type.

Diagnosing a colloid cyst in the brain.

If you suspect a colloid cyst in the brain, you should contact a neurologist or neurosurgeon. To confirm the diagnosis, specialists prescribe the following examinations:

• X-ray;
• computed tomography;
• magnetic resonance imaging.

Diagnosing a colloid cyst in the thyroid gland.

If you suspect the presence of a colloid cyst in the thyroid gland, you should make an appointment with an endocrinologist. The doctor will conduct an initial examination, palpation of the gland and prescribe the following diagnostic tests:

• ultrasound;
• computed tomography;
• laryngoscopy;
• bronchoscopy.

To confirm signs of suppuration of the colloid cyst, a fine-needle biopsy and histological examination of its contents are prescribed. During a fine-needle biopsy, aspiration of the accumulated fluid may be performed. To assess the condition of the gland, a blood test is prescribed to determine thyroid hormones (T3, T4, TSH).

Treatment

Treatment of a colloid cyst depends on its type.

Treatment of a colloid cyst in the brain in the presence of symptoms is always performed surgically. The neurosurgeon uses minimally invasive methods that give good results. Surgical intervention options:

• stereotactic drainage;
• transcallosal access;
• ventriculoscopic removal.

Surgical intervention is performed using an endoscope, which is inserted into the areas of the brain (interhemispheric and hemispheric). In case of relapse, a repeat operation is prescribed.

In most cases, a colloid cyst in the thyroid gland does not require serious treatment, except for its malignant complication.

Treatment of a colloid cyst in the thyroid gland begins with a puncture and removal of its contents. Then, its sclerotherapy is performed to improve the adhesion of its walls. If the cyst quickly accumulates fluid, then it is necessary to consult a surgeon and perform surgical removal.

Treatment of small colloid cysts occurs using conservative methods:

• hormonal therapy;
• use of drugs containing iodine;
• anti-inflammatory drugs;
• antibacterial therapy.

Prevention

Prevention of colloid cysts consists of:

• proper nutrition;
• good sleep and rest;
• physical activity;
• emotional well-being.