Intraneural ganglion cysts at the hip: The next celestial frontier

Abstract

Shin et al 2 in Skeletal Radiology provided us with a glimpse into the next frontier in our celestial-inspired, unchartered journey to understand intraneural ganglion cysts (IGCs). In the grand scheme, these experiences with hip-related IGCs are more than just case series; they represent further evidence that, when it comes to IGCs, there is much more deep space in need of exploration.IGCs are mucinous cysts within the epineurium of peripheral nerves. Once thought to be exceedingly rare, they are being described more frequently due to advances in imaging of nerve-related disorders. 3 Approximately 1000 patients with IGCs have been reported, most commonly in the peroneal nerve at the fibular neck, although they may occur at many other sites, including the hip region. IGCs often cause neuropathy (pain, motor, and sensory symptoms/findings), but may occasionally be asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic. Neurological outcomes after surgical procedures (including cyst decompression and cyst/nerve resection) tend to be suboptimal, with high recurrence rates. 4 This editorial takes us on a cosmic journey through the discovery and exploration of IGCs: from the first description of an intraneural cyst (looking to the stars) to solidifying the articular theory (an accomplishment akin to landing on the Moon), investigating rare occurrences in the hip/pelvic region (journeying to other planets), and envisioning new frontiers for IGC research (discovering other galaxies).