A cyst is a closed sac-like structure within the body’s tissues, typically filled with fluid, semi-solid material, or air. These growths form when skin cells or other debris become trapped beneath the skin’s surface, often due to a blocked hair follicle or gland. While many cysts are benign and resolve on their own, a painful, growing, or infected cyst requires professional medical attention. Urgent care centers are a convenient option for the evaluation and treatment of many common, uncomplicated cysts.
Cysts Suitable for Urgent Care Evaluation
Urgent care facilities manage superficial cysts that are symptomatic, causing discomfort or showing signs of infection. The ideal patient presents with a cyst or small abscess that has localized pain and swelling. These are typically common epidermal inclusion cysts or inflamed sebaceous cysts.
The cyst should be small to moderate in size and have a clear visual presentation, such as a localized lump that is red, warm, or tender. Urgent care can manage acute issues that are not complicated by systemic illness. These centers offer a quicker alternative when immediate attention is required but the issue is not life-threatening.
What Treatment to Expect at Urgent Care
A provider will first perform a physical examination to assess the cyst’s size, depth, and whether it is fluctuant, indicating fluid or pus. The most common procedure for an infected or inflamed cyst is Incision and Drainage (I&D). This minor, in-office procedure provides immediate relief from pressure and pain.
Before the procedure, the area is cleaned and a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, is injected to numb the site. Once anesthetized, a small incision is made with a scalpel to open the cyst and allow the trapped contents to drain. The practitioner then expresses the fluid or pus and often irrigates the cavity with sterile saline for thorough cleaning.
If the cyst is large or deep, the provider may place a small piece of gauze, called a wick, into the cavity to promote continued drainage over the next 24 to 48 hours. After drainage, the wound is dressed. A course of oral antibiotics may be prescribed if there is evidence of a surrounding bacterial infection, such as cellulitis.
Signs That Require Emergency Room Intervention
While urgent care handles many cyst issues, severe symptoms indicate a dangerous, widespread infection requiring emergency room intervention. A high-grade fever (101°F or higher) coupled with chills or confusion signals a systemic infection. Rapidly spreading redness or red streaking away from the cyst indicates aggressive cellulitis or lymphangitis, often requiring intravenous antibiotic therapy.
A cyst causing severe, disproportionate pain or located in a high-risk anatomical area also warrants an emergency visit. Cysts on the face, particularly within the “danger triangle,” carry a risk of spreading infection to the brain. Furthermore, sudden, severe pelvic pain, especially in women, may signal a life-threatening complication like ovarian torsion or rupture.
Management After the Urgent Care Visit
Once the I&D procedure is complete, wound care is necessary for healing and preventing recurrence. The provider will offer instructions, typically involving changing the dressing one to two times daily to keep the site clean and dry. If a wick was placed, it is usually removed within 48 hours, either by the patient at home or during a follow-up visit.
If antibiotics were prescribed, complete the entire course as directed. Monitor the site for signs of worsening infection, such as increased warmth, swelling, or new drainage, which would prompt a return visit. For recurring cysts or those in deep areas, schedule a follow-up with a primary care physician or surgical specialist for definitive removal.