Sebaceous Cyst - Treatments

How is a sebaceous cyst treated?

Because sebaceous cysts are generally harmless and cause no pain, they may require no treatment. Sebaceous cysts may also go away without any treatment or by simply applying a warm compress a couple of times a day to help the cyst to drain or reabsorb into the body.

Occasionally, a sebaceous cyst may become infected, or it may grow large enough to cause embarrassment or discomfort by rubbing on clothing or interfering with daily activities. In these cases, treatment of a sebaceous cyst may include:

Injection of corticosteroid medication into the cyst to reduce pain and inflammation
Oral antibiotic medication for a sebaceous cyst that is infected with bacteria
Surgical removal of the cyst, a minor procedure that can be done on an outpatient basis. A sebaceous cyst may come back if it is not completely removed.

If you have a sebaceous cyst, do not attempt to remove it, cut it open, or pop it. This can lead to an infection. Seek medical care if you wish to have it removed.

What are the possible complications of a sebaceous cyst?

In some cases, a sebaceous cyst can lead to complications. Complications of a sebaceous cyst include:

Embarrassment, especially if sebaceous cysts are large or are on a prominent area of the body, such as the face
Infection of the cyst
Skin abscess

INTRODUCTION

What is a sebaceous cyst?

A sebaceous cyst is a type of cyst that forms in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. A sebaceous cyst is also sometimes called an epidermal cyst. It forms when a sebaceous gland, an oil-producing gland in the skin, becomes blocked. This creates a sac that fills with a fatty yellow substance that can resemble cottage cheese.... Read more about sebaceous cyst introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of a sebaceous cyst?

A sebaceous cyst appears as a painless round bump in the skin. Sebaceous cysts vary in size, are generally pale colored, and are movable under the skin. Sebaceous cysts can occur anywhere on the body except on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. They tend to arise in places that are hairy, such as the scalp and the scrotum and chest in men. They are also common on the face, ears and arms.... Read more about sebaceous cyst symptoms

CAUSES

What causes a sebaceous cyst?

A sebaceous cyst occurs when an oil-secreting gland (sebaceous gland) in the skin becomes blocked. This creates a sac that fills with a fatty yellow substance. Sebaceous cysts are more likely to occur if you have the following risk factors:... Read more about sebaceous cyst causes