Sebaceous cyst: what it is, symptoms, causes and treatment

A sebaceous cyst is a lump that forms under the skin, round in shape, measuring a few centimeters, soft to the touch, and can appear in any region of the body, being most common on the scalp, ear, neck, back and face.

This type of cyst, also called epidermoid cyst, is benign, caused by an obstruction in the sebaceous gland, causing sebum to accumulate under the skin, forming the lump. Generally, the sebaceous cyst does not cause symptoms, however, when it becomes inflamed, it can cause symptoms such as pain, increased temperature in the region, sensitivity or redness.

The presence of a sebaceous cyst is usually not a sign of severity and, therefore, it is not necessary to carry out specific treatment. However, in some cases, the dermatologist may recommend drainage or surgical removal of the cyst.

Sebaceous cyst symptoms

The main symptom of a sebaceous cyst is the formation of a lump under the skin, which can be single or multiple, and has some characteristics, such as:

• Rounded lumpwhich can increase in size over time;
• Hard or soft lump on the skinand which may move during palpation;
• Cyst the same color as the skinyellowish or greenish, depending on the amount of accumulated liquid;
• Presence of a small holein which the remaining sebaceous cells may be eliminated;
• Discomfort or paindepending on where it appears and the size of the cyst.

Furthermore, when the cyst becomes inflamed, it can cause symptoms such as pain, redness, increased temperature in the affected area, sensitivity and formation of pus.

Sebaceous cysts can appear anywhere on the body, however they are more common on the face, scalp, ear, neck, chest or upper back, for example.

How to confirm the diagnosis

The diagnosis of a sebaceous cyst is made by a dermatologist through a physical examination, analyzing the characteristics of the cyst, such as color, size or consistency, in addition to evaluating the symptoms presented.

Furthermore, if the cyst is atypical, to rule out the possibility of it being a malignant lesion, the doctor may request tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography or even a biopsy of the skin in the cyst region. Find out how a skin biopsy is performed.

Possible causes

The sebaceous cyst is caused by a blockage in the duct of a sebaceous gland, and some conditions can increase the risk of the appearance of a sebaceous cyst, such as:

• Acne vulgar;
• Carnations;
• Trauma to the skin, such as cuts or wounds.

These conditions can lead to clogging of the sebaceous gland, which causes sebum or fat to accumulate in the region, leading to the appearance of a lump that can increase in size as more secretions accumulate. Learn about other causes of lumps on the skin.

How the treatment is carried out

A sebaceous cyst generally does not require specific treatment, especially when it is small, and the dermatologist may recommend the use of a warm compress for 15 minutes on the site, as this can promote dilation of the duct and encourage the spontaneous exit of the cyst contents. Under no circumstances should the cyst be squeezed, as this could encourage the occurrence of infection and cause tissue damage, which could make treatment more complicated.

In the case of inflammation or infection in the cyst, the dermatologist may perform drainage and recommend the use of antibiotics. Furthermore, if the cyst is large or causes aesthetic discomfort, the doctor may perform surgery to remove the cyst.

How is sebaceous cyst surgery performed?

Surgery for sebaceous cyst is relatively simple, being performed in a doctor’s office under local anesthesia. Generally, surgery is indicated for cysts that measure more than 1 centimeter in diameter or that are infected, as can occur when trying to squeeze, for example. After removing the contents of the cyst, the doctor may place some stitches in the area and apply a dressing that must be changed as directed.

Sebaceous cysts are generally benign, however, after their removal, the doctor may send part of their contents for laboratory analysis, to rule out the chances of them being cancer, especially if the person has already had cancer or if there are cases of the disease in the family. .