Sebaceous Cyst: Occurrence, Treatment & Removal

A sebaceous cyst appears in various places, including the genitals - testes, as a small bump under the skin and grows slowly.

Sebaceous Cyst

If you feel a pea-sized to golf-ball-sized lump that moves easily under your skin and is painless, it is likely a sebaceous cyst.

A sebaceous cyst is generally benign and causes no problems unless it becomes infected. However, an examination by a dermatologist is essential, as it is for any cystic lump you find on your body.

What is a Sebaceous Cyst? A sebaceous cyst appears on the skin as a small, off-white or yellowish lump. It originates from the sebaceous glands and develops just under the skin at a very slow pace. Its content consists of a thick liquid, a mixture of dead cells and keratin. A sebaceous cyst can remain stable in size or gradually grow. It is usually not dangerous and very rarely develops into a cancerous lesion. It is not as common as other types of skin cysts and can appear at all ages, but primarily in adults.

Sebaceous Cyst & Cause A sebaceous cyst forms when a gland becomes blocked or damaged, which can be due to an injury, a scratch, a surgical wound, or acne in the area. It can also be caused by improper formation of the sebaceous duct or a genetic predisposition.

Sebaceous Cyst & Areas of Appearance A sebaceous cyst can appear anywhere on the body, except for the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. However, the most common areas are: The scalp. Behind the ears. The chest. The back. The groin.

Sebaceous Cysts on Genitals Sebaceous cysts can appear anywhere on the body, including the genitals, pubic area, penis, and scrotum.

Diagnosis Because a sebaceous cyst can have similar characteristics to other skin conditions, such as lipomas, a visit to the dermatologist is essential. Diagnosis is usually made through careful examination and medical history. However, if the doctor deems it necessary, they may recommend an ultrasound, biopsy, or MRI.

Management & Treatment The treatment of a sebaceous cyst depends on its size, whether it causes pain, or if there is an abscess. In some cases, the doctor may recommend home care, prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present, or surgically treat the cyst. If the cyst is small, not painful, or located in an area that does not bother or is not visible, you may choose to ignore it. Many sebaceous cysts will resolve on their own. However, if its size is continuously increasing, an abscess has formed in the area, or the sebaceous cyst is in a location that is aesthetically bothersome or otherwise problematic, then it may need to be removed. The treatment for a sebaceous cyst is surgical removal, which can be done either by incision and drainage, excision, or with the help of a laser. The generally recommended method, especially for large cysts, is radical excision, meaning the removal of the sebaceous cyst with its capsule, rather than puncturing the cyst, to prevent recurrence. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia in the doctor's office, and the patient can immediately return to their daily activities. The result of sebaceous cyst removal, provided it is completely removed, is permanent.

References https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1479706 https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/sebaceous-cyst https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14165-sebaceous-cysts

What should be done if a sebaceous cyst opens?

If a sebaceous cyst 'opens,' there is a risk of infection. Therefore, your first step should be to visit a doctor for evaluation and treatment.

Can a sebaceous cyst be a sign of cancer?

A sebaceous cyst is very rarely a cancerous growth. However, only a dermatologist or surgeon can tell you this with certainty.

Is a sebaceous cyst a permanent condition?

A sebaceous cyst may resolve on its own. However, it may also remain with you indefinitely if not properly treated.