An inflammatory cyst is a common, benign, fluid-filled sac that has become inflamed. These cysts can develop in various parts of the body, often appearing as a localized swelling. While cysts are usually harmless, inflammation can lead to discomfort and other symptoms.
What is an Inflammatory Cyst?
An inflammatory cyst is a sac-like structure that forms within tissue, containing fluid, pus, or other materials, and is surrounded by inflamed tissue. The inflammation often causes the cyst to appear swollen, red, and tender to the touch.
Inflammatory cysts can appear in many areas, including the skin, such as epidermoid cysts, or within glands, like sebaceous cysts. In the oral cavity, inflammatory odontogenic cysts, such as periapical cysts, are common and develop from an inflammatory process linked to non-vital teeth. These oral cysts can be found at the apex of a tooth or in other areas of the jawbone.
Common Causes of Inflammatory Cysts
Inflammatory cysts often arise from specific triggers that lead to tissue irritation or infection. One frequent cause is bacterial infection, which can occur when bacteria enter a blocked pore, a hair follicle, or a compromised area of skin. For instance, a blocked sebaceous gland can trap sebum, creating an environment where bacteria can multiply and cause inflammation.
Trauma or injury to tissue can also initiate the formation of an inflammatory cyst. When tissue is damaged, the body’s immune response can sometimes lead to the encapsulation of damaged cells or foreign particles, resulting in a cyst. Similarly, reactions to foreign bodies, such as splinters or surgical sutures, can provoke an inflammatory response that leads to cyst development around the foreign material.
Blocked ducts are another common reason for inflammatory cysts. Glands throughout the body produce various fluids, and if their drainage ducts become obstructed, the fluid can accumulate and form a cyst. This is seen in conditions like salivary gland cysts or certain types of breast cysts. Underlying skin conditions, such as acne or folliculitis, can also predispose individuals to inflammatory cysts by creating environments prone to blockage and infection.
Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
An inflammatory cyst often presents with recognizable signs and symptoms. Common indicators include localized pain or tenderness, which can range from mild discomfort to significant throbbing. The affected area typically appears red and swollen, and it may feel warm when touched, indicating inflammation.
Sometimes, an inflammatory cyst may also exhibit pus drainage, which is a clear sign of infection within the cyst. This discharge can be thick, discolored, and may have an unpleasant odor.
It is advisable to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, such as increasing pain that interferes with daily activities or a rapid enlargement of the cyst. A fever, chills, or red streaks extending from the cyst are signs that the infection may be spreading and require prompt medical evaluation. If the cyst interferes with bodily functions or causes significant cosmetic concern, consulting a healthcare professional is also recommended.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosing an inflammatory cyst begins with a physical examination by a healthcare professional, who will assess the cyst’s appearance, size, tenderness, and any associated redness or warmth. For deeper or unclear cysts, imaging studies like ultrasound may visualize the cyst’s internal structure and contents. For suspected infections, a fluid sample might be collected for laboratory testing, such as a bacterial culture, to identify the pathogen.
Treatment approaches for inflammatory cysts vary based on the cyst’s size, location, underlying cause, and the severity of inflammation. Conservative management may involve applying warm compresses to the affected area, which can help promote drainage and reduce swelling. If a bacterial infection is confirmed or suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the infection.
For cysts that are persistent, large, or severely inflamed, medical procedures may be necessary. Incision and drainage (I&D) is a common procedure where a small cut is made in the cyst to allow the pus and fluid to drain, providing immediate relief. If the cyst recurs or poses a risk, surgical excision (complete removal) may be recommended. Corticosteroid injections can also be administered directly into the cyst to reduce inflammation, especially for non-infected cysts.