Sebaceous Cyst: Treatment, Removal Process, Causes, Symptoms & More

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What is Sebaceous Cyst?‍

Sebaceous cysts are fluid-filled cysts in the skin. They are usually found on the neck, face, and torso. They are non-cancerous cysts and do not have life-threatening impact. However, if they grow large in size, sebaceous cysts can become uncomfortable and cause irritation. Sometimes, the term sebaceous cyst also refers to:

Epidermoid Cyst: This type of cyst originates in the epidermis, i.e., the outermost layer of skin.
Pilar Cyst: This type of cysts originates from hair follicles.

Sebaceous Cyst Symptoms

‍Typically, sebaceous cysts are not painful. However, large cysts may put pressure on the skin and can become uncomfortable. Sebaceous cysts are soft to touch as they are filled with white flakes of keratin. While they are easy to detect, sebaceous cyst symptoms include:

A small bump around skin, neck, back or trunk
The cyst is usually filled with a thick, yellow and smelly liquid that may drain
Redness, tenderness or swelling around the area
A tiny blackhead can be present at the central opening of the cyst

Sebaceous cysts can be serious or possibly cancerous if:

They show sign of infection
Reoccur at a fast rate even after surgical removal
Have a diameter of more than 5 centimeters‍

‍Who is at Risk?

‍Anyone can develop sebaceous cysts irrespective of age and gender. But there are some specific conditions that can increase a person’s chances of getting sebaceous cysts. Some of the sebaceous cyst risk factors are as follows:

Puberty
Rare hereditary disorders
Injury to skin

Sebaceous Cyst Causes

‍Usually, sebaceous cysts occur due to damage or blockage in the sebaceous gland that produces oil called sebum. However, the causes can vary from person to person. We have listed below some of the common sebaceous cyst causes:

Any accident or trauma leading to a scratch or surgical wound
Skin conditions like acne
Deformed oil duct of the sebaceous gland
Genetic conditions such as basal cell nevus syndrome or Gardner’s syndrome

How is Sebaceous Cyst Diagnosed?

‍Sebaceous cyst diagnosis is done through a simple physical examination. In some cases, the doctor may conduct several tests to examine if the cyst is cancerous in nature. Some of those common tests for sebaceous cyst diagnosis include:

CT Scans: This test helps the doctor in finding the best way for surgery and examining any abnormalities in the cyst.

Ultrasound: This helps in diagnosing the insides of the sebaceous cyst.

Biopsy: At times, the doctors may scrape off some skin cells from the sebaceous cyst to examine them through a microscope. The samples are also sent to the laboratory to check for cancer signs.

How is Sebaceous Cyst Treated?

‍Sebaceous cyst treatment depends on the size of the cysts. Some people usually do not opt for proper treatments since these cysts are harmful in nature. Typically, sebaceous cysts are removed for cosmetic reasons. Some of the common methods of sebaceous cyst treatment include:

Injection: The doctors inject medicine for the sebaceous cyst to reduce inflammation and swelling
Laser with punch biopsy excision: The sebaceous cyst doctor uses a laser to drain the contents of the cyst. Later, the outer walls are removed.
Surgery: As the name suggests, a general surgeon removes the entire sebaceous cyst. This is the most effective method and usually prevents the recurrence of cysts.

In most of the cases, the healing process is successful. However, it is advised that the patient follows the doctor’s instructions and contact them in case there is any sign of infection. Finding a sebaceous cyst cure is easy when you have a trusted healthcare provider. Care.Fit is one of the best health care providers offering quality services. We have a team of highly skilled doctors who also offer online consultation. Not just this, we also provide a free follow-up within 8 days of your appointment. You can check our website or app to find the list of doctors as per their specialities. ‍