Sebaceous cyst: what is it, symptoms and how to eliminate it (with photos)

The sebaceous cyst is a lump that forms under the skin, in a rounded shape, measuring a few centimeters, white to the touch, and can appear in any area of ​​the body, being more common in the hairy, orejas, cuello, back and face .

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

The presence of a sebaceous cyst is usually not a sign of seriousness, so it is not necessary to carry out a specific treatment. However, in some cases, the dermatologist can indicate the drainage or surgical removal of the cyst.

possible causes

The sebaceous cyst forms when the conduit of a sebaceous gland becomes obstructed, producing a progressive accumulation of secretion in that area, causing the appearance of the cyst, which can increase in size as more secretions accumulate.

The obstruction of the sebaceous gland conduit can occur due to a cut or injury in the region where these glands exist, or it can be a consequence of acne, where there is obstruction in the opening of the follicle, causing inflammation of the area and proliferation of bacteria.

Find out more about the causes of acne and how to treat it.

main symptoms

The sebaceous cyst can be easily identified through direct observation, and is characterized by being a nodule, similar to a bulk, which can be single or multiple. The main characteristics that help to recognize a sebaceous cyst are:

• Rounded nodule, which can increase from size to length of time;
• Little consistent nodule, which can be hard or soft, and can move during palpation;
• Nodule of the same color of the skin, yellowish or green, according to the amount of accumulated secretion;
• Presence of a small orifice, in which there may be elimination of the remains of sebaceous cells;
• It can cause discomfort and pain, depending on the area from which it arises.

The sebaceous cyst can appear in any region of the body, however, it is more frequently observed in the hairy, orejas, buttocks, back and face, for example.

How is the treatment performed?

In general, the presence of a sebaceous cyst is not a sign of seriousness, so it is not necessary that any specific treatment be carried out. However, in certain cases, the person may wish to remove the cyst for aesthetic reasons and, in this situation, it is important that the dermatologist is consulted to indicate the best form of treatment.

In this way, during the consultation with the dermatologist, it will be possible to evaluate if there are signs of infection and, in this case, the removal of the cyst may be recommended by means of a small surgical procedure, which is performed under local anesthesia, and is also indicated. use of antibiotics for a maximum of 7 days, according to medical advice.

In cases where there are no signs of infection, the doctor may indicate that the person apply a compress of hot water for 15 minutes in the area where the patient is, so it is possible to promote the dilation of the conduit and promote the spontaneous expulsion of his content. It is not advisable to express the cyst, as it may favor the emergence of infection and provoke the injury of the tissues that are found around the same, which can make the treatment more complicated.

What does surgery consist of

The surgery for sebaceous cyst is relatively simple, being carried out in a medical office under local anesthesia. This is indicated in cases that measure more than 1 centimeter in diameter, which is infected, as can occur when the individual tries to express it, for example. After the content of the cyst has been removed, the doctor can place some sutures in the area and perform a healing that will have to be changed depending on the indications.

Generally, the sebaceous glands are benign, but after they are surgically removed, the doctor may send part of the contents to the laboratory for analysis and thus to rule out the possibilities of malignancy, eg, cancer, especially if the individual has cancer or if there are cases of illness in the family.