What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Cyst of Wen
• Epidermal Cyst
• Infundibular Cyst

What is Epidermoid Cyst? (Definition/Background Information)

• Epidermoid Cyst is one of the most common cysts of skin that is generally observed in middle-aged adults. It occurs on the skin as a painless nodule
• This benign cyst can be present anywhere in the body, but the common location is the head and neck region
• The cause and risk factors for Epidermoid Cyst are presently unknown
• In a majority of cases, no treatment in necessary, unless it causes discomfort in the individual including cosmetic issues
• A simple surgical excision of the tumor is considered curative. The prognosis for Epidermoid Cyst is excellent with suitable treatment

Who gets Epidermoid Cyst? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Epidermoid Cyst is a very common benign cyst that can occur at any age, but is more common in middle-aged adults
• Both males and females may be affected with equal frequency
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected. Worldwide, no geographical localization of Epidermoid Cyst has been reported

What are the Risk Factors for Epidermoid Cyst? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Epidermoid Cyst
• Patients with Gardner syndrome have an increased number of epidermoid cysts

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Epidermoid Cyst? (Etiology)

• The cause of development of Epidermoid Cyst is presently unknown
• Research is currently being undertaken to identify the relevant causal factors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Epidermoid Cyst?

Most Epidermoid Cysts are asymptomatic. In some, the signs and symptoms observed include:

• It usually occurs as a single cyst on the skin. It can range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters (size can range from 5 mm to 5 cm)
• The skin over the nodules may have a reddish discoloration
• These cysts are usually painless and non-itchy. They are mostly well-demarcated and firm to touch
• Epidermoid Cysts can occur all over the body. The most common sites include the head and neck, trunk, and scrotum
• When they occur on the scrotal skin, they can become very hard and firm, due to calcification

Epidermoid Cyst typically occurs as a single cyst that grows slowly. However, multiple cysts may also be seen.

How is Epidermoid Cyst Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Epidermoid Cyst may involve the following:

• A thorough medical history and physical examination
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Note: A biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin conditions with similar signs and symptoms.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Epidermoid Cyst?

Epidermoid Cysts are benign cysts that do not cause any significant complications. However, the following factors may be a cause for concern:

• The presence of multiple or large-sized cysts may result in cosmetic issues
• Sometimes, they can rupture, become infected, inflamed, and painful. When these heal, they can leave a scar behind without resolution of the causative cyst
• Deliberate squeezing to empty the contents, as well as trauma from clothing or activities, can cause the cyst to rupture; and so, this should be avoided

How is Epidermoid Cyst Treated?

The treatment of Epidermoid Cyst may involve the following:

• In a majority of cases, removal of the cyst is not necessary, unless the cyst causes bothersome signs and symptoms such as cosmetic issues
• The treatment of choice is a complete surgical excision, which results in a cure

How can Epidermoid Cyst be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods available to prevent the occurrence of Epidermoid Cysts.

What is the Prognosis of Epidermoid Cyst? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Epidermoid Cyst is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign cyst.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Epidermoid Cyst:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Epidermoid Cyst
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse