CYSTS OF THE UDDER.
Cysts of the udder may assume one of two forms, milk or galactocelous cysts and serous cysts; possibly the latter are only hydatid cysts.
Both varieties are of the nature of retention cysts, and result from accidental obliteration of a milk conduit, which has been obstructed by coagulated casein, or from atresia due to contraction of inflamed connective tissue. The acini are isolated and become dilated, the milk undergoes changes in composition, the secretory epithelium degenerates, and the cyst is produced.
The serous or milk cysts may vary considerably in size, and always show a rapid tendency to suppuration.
The diagnosis is based on the detection of uniform fluctuation without excessive sensibility, and can be confirmed by an exploratory capillary puncture.
The prognosis is grave, for recovery can only occur after the lining membrane of the cyst has been destroyed.
Treatment. Puncture followed by irrigation is insufficient, whatever the nature of the cyst.
Free incision, or simple puncture with a bistoury, produces suppuration within the cystic cavity, which continues until the lining membrane is completely destroyed; but this takes a very long time.
Removal of the entire cyst, either with the bistoury or by tearing through the surrounding connective tissue, is the best method of treatment. The wound thus produced heals regularly and rapidly under an antiseptic surgical dressing.