Will the cyst turn into cancer if it is left untreated for a long time?

If a cyst is left untreated for a long time, it may turn into cancer in certain circumstances, but not all cysts have this risk. Whether a cyst will turn into cancer depends on its nature, size, and location. Generally speaking, most cysts are benign, such as sebaceous cysts or functional ovarian cysts, and can be treated with observation or simple treatment. However, some cysts (such as ovarian cysts, breast cysts, etc.) may become malignant if they are delayed for a long time and not reviewed regularly. To avoid this risk, the key is to make a timely diagnosis, actively treat, and review regularly.

1. Possible causes of cyst canceration

Possible causes of cyst canceration include genetic factors, environmental influences, and changes in the body itself.

-Genetic factors: Some cysts are related to family inheritance. For example, ovarian cysts are closely related to the history of breast cancer and ovarian cancer in the family. If there is a history of related cancer in the family, you should be more vigilant about whether the cysts are malignant.

- Environmental influence: Bad living habits, such as long-term smoking, alcoholism, or exposure to carcinogens in the environment, can increase the chance of cyst canceration. Certain chronic inflammations (such as chronic cervicitis) may also promote the malignant development of local lesions.

- Changes in the body: Long-term presence of cysts may cause abnormal tissue proliferation, such as continued enlargement of the cyst or increase in fluid, or the appearance of accompanying symptoms (such as pain, bleeding or pressure), all of which may be precursors to lesions.

2. Manifestations and screening methods of cyst cancer

If a cyst becomes cancerous, it usually presents with the following abnormalities:

- Worsening symptoms: The cyst suddenly increases in size or is accompanied by severe pain, abnormal exudate, or tissue damage.

-Systemic manifestations: unexplained weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite and other systemic symptoms.

-Local abnormalities: For example, ovarian cysts that become cancerous may cause irregular menstruation and pelvic pressure, and breast cysts that become malignant may cause nipple discharge and hardened lumps.

It is recommended to use imaging examinations (such as ultrasound, CT, MRI) and tumor marker tests (such as CA125, CA19-9, etc.) to determine whether the cyst has a tendency to become malignant. Pathological examination after puncture biopsy or surgical resection is the basis for the final diagnosis.

3. How to treat cysts to avoid cancer

Cysts in different parts of the body need to be treated appropriately according to their nature. Here are some common treatment options for cysts:

(1) Drug treatment

-For functional cysts (such as some ovarian cysts), oral contraceptives can be used to regulate endocrine system and help the cysts disappear on their own.

- Anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to treat cysts with infection, such as antibiotics for local infection of sebaceous cysts.

(2) Surgical treatment

-Cystectomy: For cysts that have existed for a long time or are suspected of having a tendency to malignant transformation, complete surgical removal is recommended.

-Endoscopic surgery: such as laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy, which is less invasive and requires a shorter recovery time.

- Radical surgery: If the cyst is found to be significantly abnormal or confirmed to be cancerous, extensive resection or even combined organ resection may be required.

(3) Daily monitoring and dietary improvement

-Develop the habit of regular physical examinations every year, including B-ultrasound and tumor marker testing.

- Eat a light diet, reduce high-sugar and high-fat foods, and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables to improve antioxidant capacity. Drinking more water can help relieve the symptoms of urinary tract cysts.

4. Key points for preventing cyst cancer

-Maintain a good lifestyle: getting enough rest, eating regularly, avoiding long periods of sitting and exercising moderately can help improve your body's immunity.

- Regular check-ups for early detection: Women aged 25 and above are recommended to undergo gynecological B-ultrasound examinations every year, and people aged 50 and above are recommended to undergo regular tumor marker screening.

-Beware of family medical history: If there is a history of related malignant diseases in the family, you should pay more attention to regular check-ups.

Cysts are not terrible. They only become malignant in very rare cases. The key is to find them in time and take appropriate treatment. I hope every patient can face the disease positively and manage their health in a scientific and rational way. Remember: regular physical examinations and scientific prevention are always the first step to protect your health!