Meaning of the Word
A cyst is a closed sac-like structure that can form within tissues of the body, typically filled with liquid, semiliquid, or gas.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- A closed, sac-like structure that can develop in any part of the body, usually filled with fluid or other material.
- A benign (non-cancerous) growth or lump that often forms under the skin or in internal organs.
- A small, abnormal pocket or cavity within tissues or organs that can vary in size and content.
History and Origin
The word “cyst” comes from the Greek kystis, meaning “bladder” or “pouch.” It was first used in medical terminology in the early 19th century to describe various types of fluid-filled sacs in the body. The term has since evolved to encompass a wide range of sac-like structures, regardless of their contents.
Detailed Explanation
A cyst is a growth that can form in almost any part of the body, typically as a result of an abnormal buildup of fluid, air, or other materials. Cysts can range in size from tiny, unnoticeable bumps to large, visible masses. They can occur within tissues or organs and are often benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, some cysts may cause discomfort or complications if they press on surrounding structures. Common types of cysts include sebaceous cysts (under the skin), ovarian cysts (in the ovaries), and kidney cysts (in the kidneys). In some cases, cysts may require medical attention if they grow large, become infected, or cause pain.
Example Sentences
- The doctor discovered a cyst on her ovary during a routine examination.
- He was advised to have the sebaceous cyst removed as it was causing discomfort.
- The cyst was filled with a thick, yellow substance that the doctor drained.
- Although most cysts are harmless, some can become infected or painful.
- The MRI showed a cyst in the patient’s liver, which required further testing.
- A cyst may form in various parts of the body, such as the skin, kidneys, or breasts.
- She was relieved to learn that the lump was a benign cyst and not cancerous.
- The cyst on his hand was small, and the doctor suggested monitoring it for any changes.
- If a cyst grows large, it may press on surrounding organs, causing discomfort.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Tumor: A swelling or mass that can refer to both benign and malignant growths, though tumors are not always cysts.
- Lump: A raised area or bump under the skin, which may or may not be a cyst.
- Nodule: A small, rounded mass, similar to a cyst, typically found in tissues or organs.
- Cavity: A hollow space within the body or an organ, which can sometimes be filled with fluid, forming a cyst.
- Blister: A fluid-filled bubble on the skin, which can be considered a type of cyst in some cases.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Abscess: A collection of pus that can form within tissues, similar to a cyst but typically caused by infection.
- Granuloma: A small area of inflammation, often a result of infection, that can develop into a cyst-like structure.
- Polyp: A growth or mass protruding from a mucous membrane, which can sometimes resemble a cyst.
- Carbuncle: A cluster of boils or abscesses under the skin, often resulting from an infection in a cyst.
- Fibroma: A benign tumor made up of fibrous tissue, which can sometimes occur in conjunction with cysts.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Ovarian cyst: A cyst that forms on or within an ovary, which may cause pain or hormonal issues.
- Sebaceous cyst: A type of cyst formed in the sebaceous gland of the skin, typically filled with sebum.
- Cystic fibrosis: A genetic disorder that can cause cysts to form in the lungs and digestive system.
- Breast cyst: A fluid-filled sac in the breast tissue that is often benign.
- Dermoid cyst: A type of cyst that contains tissues like hair or skin cells, often found in the ovaries or other areas.
Antonyms
- Absence: The lack of a cyst or abnormal growth in the body.
- Normal tissue: Healthy, unaltered tissue that is not swollen or cystic.
- Solid mass: A growth that is firm and without a fluid-filled cavity, unlike a cyst.
- Non-encapsulated: Describes tissue or growths that are not enclosed in a sac, as with cysts.
- Clear space: The absence of any fluid-filled or abnormal structures, such as a cyst.