Question 1

What is an aneurysmal bone cyst?

Accepted Answer

An aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a benign (non-cancerous) blood-filled lesion that occurs in bone. It's not a true 'cyst' - it's made up of blood-filled channels surrounded by bone-forming tissue. The name comes from its appearance on X-ray, where it looks like the bone is 'blown out' or ballooned (like an aneurysm in a blood vessel). ABCs occur mostly in children and young adults, most commonly in the spine, thigh bone, shin bone, or upper arm.

Question 2

Is aneurysmal bone cyst cancer?

Accepted Answer

No, aneurysmal bone cyst is NOT cancer. It's a benign (non-cancerous) lesion. However, it can be locally destructive, weakening the bone and causing pain, swelling, and fractures. A biopsy is needed to confirm it's benign and not a more serious condition. In 20-30% of cases, an ABC develops within another bone lesion, which is why biopsy and careful examination are important.

Question 3

What causes aneurysmal bone cyst?

Accepted Answer

The exact cause is unknown. ABC is thought to result from a local disturbance in blood flow within the bone, creating a vascular malformation. Some cysts develop after minor trauma, but trauma is not required. In about 20-30% of cases, ABC arises in association with another bone lesion (like fibrous dysplasia or giant cell tumor). It's not hereditary and doesn't run in families.

Question 4

Will I definitely need surgery?

Accepted Answer

Most aneurysmal bone cysts require treatment because they grow and can cause fracture. Surgery (curettage and bone grafting) is the most common treatment with 80-90% success. However, newer options like denosumab (medication) or sclerotherapy (injections) may be tried first for cysts in difficult-to-reach locations like the spine. Observation alone is rarely recommended. Your treatment depends on the cyst's size, location, symptoms, and your age.

Question 5

What is the success rate of surgery?

Accepted Answer

Curettage (scraping out the cyst) and bone grafting has 80-90% success rate. However, recurrence occurs in 10-20% of cases, usually within the first 2 years. If the cyst recurs, repeat curettage is often successful. Use of adjuvants during surgery (like liquid nitrogen or phenol to kill residual cells) may reduce recurrence risk. Spine cysts have higher recurrence rates (20-30%) than cysts in long bones.

Medical Disclaimer

Aneurysmal Bone Cyst

📖What is Aneurysmal Bone Cyst?

🔬What Causes It?

⚠️Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if:

🛡️Prevention