Sebaceous Cyst
If you feel a lump the size of a pea or even a golf ball that moves easily under your skin without causing pain then you may have a sebaceous cyst.
A sebaceous cyst is generally benign and does not cause problems unless it becomes infected.
In any case however, the examination by the dermatologist is necessary, as for any cystic lump that you find on your body.
What is a Sebaceous Cyst?
The sebaceous cyst appears on the skin as a small bump with a whitish, yellowish color. It originates from the sebaceous glands and grows just under the skin at a very slow rate, while its contents consist of a thick fluid, a mixture of dead cells and keratin.
The sebaceous cyst may remain constant in size or evolve gradually. It is usually not dangerous and very rarely develops into a cancerous lesion.
It is not as common as other types of skin cysts and occurs at all ages, but mostly in adults.
Sebaceous Cyst & Cause
A sebaceous cyst is created when a gland becomes blocked or damaged, which can be from an injury, a scratch or some surgical wound or acne in the area. It can also be created due to poor formation of the sebaceous duct or due to genetic predisposition.
Sebaceous Cyst & Symptoms
Sebaceous cyst can appear anywhere on the body except the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
However, the most common points are:
- The scalp.
- The back of the ears.
- The breast.
- The back.
- The groin.
Sebaceous Cyst in the Genital Organs
Sebaceous cysts can appear anywhere on the body including the genitals, penis, penis and scrotum.
Diagnosis
Because sebaceous cyst can have similar characteristics to other skin conditions, such as lipoma, a visit to the dermatologist is essential,
Diagnosis is usually made by careful examination and history taking.
However, if the doctor deems it necessary, he may recommend an ultrasound, biopsy or MRI.
Treatment
The treatment of the sebaceous cyst depends on its size, whether it causes pain or if there is an abscess.
In some cases, the doctor may recommend home care, give antibiotics if there is an infection, or treat the cyst surgically.
If the cyst is small, doesn't hurt or is located in a place where it doesn't bother or is not visible, you can ignore it. After all, many sebaceous cysts will go away on their own.
If, however, its size is constantly increasing, an abscess has formed in the area, the sebaceous cyst is at a point where it is aesthetically disturbing and not only that, then it may need to be removed.
The treatment of the sebaceous cyst is surgical removal, which can be done either by incision and drainage, or by excision, or with the help of a laser.
The method that is generally recommended, especially for large-sized cysts, is radical removal, that is, the removal of the sebaceous cyst with its casing, rather than puncturing the cyst in order to prevent recurrence.
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia in the office and the patient can immediately return to his duties.
The result of removing the sebaceous cyst, as long as it is removed in its entirety, is permanent.
«We don't squeeze and 'pop' the sebaceous cyst because the infection will spread and may recur»