Intratendinous Ganglion Cyst of the Extensor Indicis: A Case Report

An intratendinous ganglion cyst is a very rare benign lesion with an unknown etiology. The clinical diagnosis can be difficult as patients may have mild symptoms or impaired hand functionality. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging can differentiate a ganglion cyst from other soft-tissue tumors and tumor-like lesions and provide excellent information on the location of an intratendinous lesion to schedule surgical treatment. We present a case report of a 50-year-old female diagnosed with an intratendinous ganglion cyst of the extensor indicis. She complained of right-hand swelling for three months, which was associated with pain. The US revealed an oval hypoechoic mass with cystic formation at the extensor indicis, measuring 9 x 4 mm, compatible with an intratendinous ganglion cyst. The cyst was excised by enucleation. After surgery, the patient was referred to the Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine for evaluation. She started a rehabilitation programme. The patient presented a favourable clinical evolution with a return to her previous professional activity. However, six months after surgery, the cyst recurred, but with a smaller size and no associated pain.