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Sternoclavicular joint ganglion cysts in young children
Lawrence H Haber1, Nicholas A Waanders, George H Thompson
1Rainbow Babies and Childrens Hospital, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
Insights
Ganglion cysts rarely occur in children's sternoclavicular joints. This study found these cysts can be observed if asymptomatic, with no recurrences after surgical removal in symptomatic cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Radiology
- Pediatric Pathology
Background:
- Ganglion cysts are common soft tissue tumors, but their origin from the sternoclavicular joint in pediatric patients is unprecedented.
- The sternoclavicular joint is a rare site for cystic lesions in children, necessitating further investigation into their etiology and management.
Observation:
- This study evaluated five pediatric patients presenting with anterior sternoclavicular joint masses.
- Diagnostic imaging, including magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound, was utilized to confirm the cystic nature of the lesions.
- Clinical presentation varied, with only one patient experiencing symptoms related to the mass.
Findings:
- Ganglion cysts were diagnosed in all five pediatric patients, confirmed by imaging and histopathology in most cases.
- Surgical excision was performed in three patients, with no reported instances of recurrence following the procedure.
- The study highlights the potential for ganglion cysts to arise from the sternoclavicular joint in children.
Implications:
- The findings suggest that observation may be a suitable management strategy for asymptomatic sternoclavicular ganglion cysts in children.
- This research expands the known differential diagnosis for pediatric sternoclavicular joint masses.
- Further studies are warranted to understand the long-term outcomes and optimal management of these rare pediatric cystic lesions.
Abstract:
Ganglion cysts originating from the sternoclavicular joint in children have not been previously reported. In this study, 5 children who presented with a small mass over the anterior aspect of the sternoclavicular joint were evaluated and treated. Only 1 patient was symptomatic. A ganglion cyst was suspected in each case and confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging in 3 patients and ultrasound in one patient. Excisional biopsy was performed in 3 patients and the diagnosis of a ganglion cyst confirmed histopathologically. No patient has had a recurrence. Observation of asymptomatic cystic lesions that arise in the sternoclavicular location is recommended.