A sebaceous cyst is a fluid-filled sack underneath the skin. The sac contains keratin, a form of protein that is a crucial component of skin and nails. Although a cyst of this type does not grow fast, it could result in a small visible lump. These cysts may form when the skin is traumatized or slightly injured. The hair follicles located in the skin may become irritated and may start to swell. Skin cells that are normally found on the surface may find their way into these swollen sections where they continue to increase in number until they form and fill a sac.

Basic Sebaceous Cyst

Sebaceous Cyst Symptoms

A sebaceous cyst normally does not cause any pain. This is why the only visible sign that you have it is a lump or bump in your skin. In some cases the lump may be so small that it may not be visible but it will be obvious to the touch. A sebaceous cyst is not overly hard and can move freely and painlessly once prodded. Cysts can be found on the face, neck, stomach, scalp, breast and genitals. Occasionally, cysts can be big and may cause some discomfort.

Not every sebaceous cyst stays as a lump. A cyst could become infected especially when it is overly prodded or if it is punctured. In this case, it may become red and inflamed. An abscess will also form and the fluid will start to seep out. The fluid is often yellowish, slightly sticky and has a bad odor.

Sebaceous Cyst

Treatment of a Sebaceous Cyst

You don’t have to do anything to a sebaceous cyst. It often disappears on its own. In case there is a real need to remove a cyst, a doctor may inject it with antibiotics or steroids. It may also be removed through a minor surgical procedure. If a cyst is not properly removed, it could form again.

In some cases, a cyst will respond well to warm moisture. It may help if you put a warm and damp cloth over a cyst for several days. Keeping the skin area clean and dry is also recommended.

Seeing Your Doctor

It is fairly easy for anyone to detect a sebaceous cyst. Even non-medical practitioners can recognize a cyst upfront. Do remember though that there are other conditions that could cause lumps underneath the skin. Even if a lump closely resembles a cyst, you should rather be safe than sorry. You might need to see your doctor who is the best authority to confirm that it is a cyst. If the lump looks suspicious or is located in a crucial part of the body, fluid from the cyst may have to be taken out for a test or biopsy.

You would truly be fortunate if all you have is a sebaceous cyst. You may just have to wait it out.

Top Five Questions on Sebaceous Cysts

1. Are these Sebaceous Cysts dangerous?

Sebaceous cysts are not dangerous. They are simply sacs underneath the skin filled with fluid made up of keratin. Although a cyst may become infected and may sometimes cause discomfort, it typically will not lead to a more serious medical condition. Even so, it still makes a lot of sense to have cyst checked. This is especially true if you suspect that the growth may be more serious than it appears. Your doctor can help confirm that you truly have nothing to worry about. He will also give you a few options if you want to do something about your cyst.

Small Sebaceous Cyst on the ear

2. Are there any other symptoms of a Sebaceous Cysts aside from a lump?

Most sebaceous cysts are painless. Often the only real clue to their presence is a lump that can either be seen with the naked eye or felt through the skin. Sebaceous cysts are typically soft and are not hard, stationary lumps. They will move in circular motions when touched. An infected cyst however may show more symptoms. Infection can lead to inflammation and a reddening of the cyst area. An abscess may form in which case the yellow keratin fluid will come out.

3. What are the options for Sebaceous Cyst removal?

One option is not to have sebaceous cysts removed. These growths can disappear on their own when they are not irritated. If you feel some discomfort due to a cyst however, you may choose to have it removed. Your doctor may recommend medication or surgery. If after your initial doctor’s consultation you develop another cyst, you might want to consider applying a warm, moist towel on the area. Only attempt this home remedy though if you are absolutely sure that you have nothing more than a sebaceous cyst.

4. Why do Sebaceous Cysts form?

These sebaceous cysts form underneath the skin when the skin or hair follicles become slightly traumatized or irritated. The follicles may swell and the fluid filled sacs may form. Keratin cells which find their way into the sack begin to multiply in it, making the lump even more apparent. The cysts may appear on the face, neck, abdomen, trunk and genital area.

5. Who are prone to developing these Sebaceous Cysts?

Anyone can develop sebaceous cysts. After all, our daily activities often put the skin and hair follicles in situations that could irritate them. In any case, you typically don’t have to worry about having these cysts. You simply have to wait for them to go away on their own.

Sebaceous cysts shouldn’t send you off into a state of panic. Remember to be vigilant with any kind of growth on the body that is abnormal. You might feel overly confident that you simply have a sebaceous cyst when it could be something more serious. See your doctor if you aren’t sure about the nature of the lump on your skin.