cyst

cyst

noun \ˈsist\

Definition of CYST

1

: a closed sac having a distinct membrane and developing abnormally in a cavity or structure of the body

2

: a body resembling a cyst: as

a : a resting spore of many algae

b : a gas-filled vesicle (as of a rockweed or bladderwort)

c : a capsule formed about a minute organism going into a resting or spore stage; also : this capsule with its contents

d : a resistant cover about a parasite produced by the parasite or the host

Origin of CYST

New Latin cystis, from Greek kystis bladder, pouch; akin to Sanskrit śvasiti he blows, snorts — more at wheeze

First Known Use: circa 1720

Other Medicine Terms

analgesia, angina, diabetes, hepatitis, homeopathy, logorrhea, palliate, pandemic

Rhymes with CYST

cist, fist, gist, grist, kist, list, Liszt, mist, schist, tryst, twist, whist, wist, wrist

cyst

noun \ˈsist\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of CYST

1

: a closed sac having a distinct membrane and developing abnormally in a body cavity or structure

2

: a body resembling a cyst: as a : a capsule formed about a minute organism going into a resting or spore stage; also : this capsule with its contents b : a resistant cover about a parasite produced by the parasite or the host—compare hydatid 2a

cyst

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Enclosed sac within body tissues. It has a distinct membrane and generally contains liquid. Most cysts are benign, but several kinds may be malignant or precancerous. Benign cysts often press on nearby organs and require removal. Formed by overproduction of epithelium (surface tissue of anatomical structures), cysts may become detached from surrounding structures and move freely. They can contain natural secretions, abnormal breakdown products, or, in infections, bacteria, larval parasites, and microbial products. Some organs, including the kidney, liver, and breast, can become filled with cysts as a result of cystic diseases that may be dangerous or may hide more serious diseases. See also tumour.