The term "Urachal Cyst" is commonly spelled with two "a's", which may cause confusion when pronouncing the word. Its correct pronunciation is [yoo-ray-kuh l sIst], with stress on the second syllable. The word "urachal" refers to the urachus, a fetal structure that connects the bladder to the umbilicus. Meanwhile, a "cyst" is a sac-like structure filled with fluid. Urachal Cysts occur when the urachus does not close properly after birth, causing an abnormal swelling in the midline of the abdomen.
An urachal cyst is a medical condition characterized by the formation of a fluid-filled sac or pouch that develops in the remnants of the urachus, a structure present in the fetus during early development. The urachus is a tubular connection between the bladder and the umbilicus that normally degenerates and disappears before birth. However, in some cases, the urachus fails to fully close and remnants of it persist, leading to the development of a cyst.
Urachal cysts are typically found in the lower abdomen, near the midline, between the belly button and the bladder. They are usually small in size, but can vary in shape and extend inwards towards the bladder or outwards towards the abdominal wall. While most urachal cysts are benign and do not cause any symptoms, in some instances they can become infected, leading to pain and inflammation.
If symptoms arise or complications occur, medical intervention may be necessary. Treatment for urachal cysts often involves surgical removal of the cyst to prevent infection and recurrence. Diagnostic procedures such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help determine the presence of a urachal cyst and guide treatment decisions.
In summary, an urachal cyst refers to a fluid-filled sac that develops in the remnants of the urachus. Although usually benign and asymptomatic, they can cause symptoms if infected. Treatment often involves surgical removal to prevent complications.
The term "Urachal" refers to the urachus, which is a structure in the human body. The word "cyst" originates from the Latin word "cystis", which means a sac or bladder.
The urachus is a tube-like structure that connects the bladder of a developing fetus to the umbilicus (navel). It serves as a channel for the excretion of waste products from the bladder into the amniotic fluid during fetal development. After birth, the urachus normally closes off and degenerates, becoming a ligament called the median umbilical ligament.
However, if the urachus fails to close properly, it may lead to the formation of a cyst or persistent sinus. This condition is known as an urachal cyst, where the urachal tube remains open and secretes mucus, forming a fluid-filled cyst.