A sebaceous cyst is a common, non-cancerous lump that forms just beneath the skin. These cysts are typically slow-growing and contain a soft, cheese-like material made of keratin. They often appear as a round or dome-shaped bump and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. While they can occur almost anywhere on the body, they are most frequently found on the face, neck, scalp, back, and ears.
Risks of Self-Extraction
Attempting to pop or squeeze a sebaceous cyst at home is discouraged due to risks. The contents of the cyst are not sterile, and introducing bacteria from hands or unsterilized tools can lead to infection. Such infections can cause increased pain, redness, swelling, and warmth around the cyst, potentially developing into cellulitis or an abscess.
Self-extraction rarely removes the entire cyst wall or sac, which is necessary for preventing recurrence. If the sac remains, the cyst is likely to refill with keratinous material, often growing back. Manipulating the cyst can also lead to permanent scarring, as the skin may be damaged during the process. Also, a lump under the skin might not be a simple sebaceous cyst; self-treatment could delay proper diagnosis of a more serious condition.
Professional Management Options
Medical professionals manage sebaceous cysts with safe and effective methods, minimizing complications. For cysts that are inflamed or infected, an incision and drainage procedure may be performed. This involves making a small cut to allow the accumulated fluid and debris to drain, which helps reduce swelling and discomfort. While this offers relief, it does not remove the cyst sac, so the cyst can return.
Complete surgical excision is the definitive treatment to prevent recurrence. During this procedure, a doctor removes the entire cyst, including its capsule, under local anesthesia. This reduces recurrence. In some cases, if a cyst is inflamed but not infected, a steroid injection may be administered to reduce swelling and inflammation, which can help shrink the cyst.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a doctor for a sebaceous cyst under several circumstances. A doctor should evaluate any new or changing lump to ensure an accurate diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Signs that warrant a professional consultation include increased pain, tenderness, or rapid growth of the cyst.
Infection indicators, such as significant redness, warmth, pus drainage, or a foul odor emanating from the cyst, also necessitate medical review. If a cyst is located in a sensitive area, causes persistent irritation, or exceeds 5 centimeters in diameter, professional assessment is recommended. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures appropriate management and prevents potential complications.