Sebaceous Cysts of Skin

Sebaceous Cysts of Skin

Article
Skin Care
Diseases & Conditions
+1
Contributed byMaulik P. Purohit MD MPHJan 15, 2019

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

  • Dermal Sebaceous Cysts
  • Epidermal Inclusion Cysts of Skin
  • Sebaceous Gland Cysts of Skin

What is Sebaceous Cysts of Skin? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Sebaceous Cyst of Skin is a benign superficial cyst that forms on the skin when the sebaceous glands (oil glands) that lubricate the skin and hair get obstructed due to various reasons. It is also known as Epidermal Inclusion Cyst of Skin
  • The cysts may be solitary or multiple in numbers and are generally painless. Sebaceous cysts are observed on the head and neck region, face, and trunk. They may form due to trauma, acne, or even due to certain genetic disorders
  • No significant signs and symptoms or complications are typically noted. However, in some cases, Sebaceous Gland Cysts of Skin may grow to larger sizes resulting in discomfort and pain
  • Typically, no treatment is necessary for the condition, unless significant signs and symptoms are observed. If necessary, conservative therapy through use of topical creams and good personal hygiene may be recommended
  • In general, the prognosis of Sebaceous Gland Cysts of Skin is excellent with appropriate treatment

Who gets Sebaceous Cysts of Skin? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Sebaceous Cysts of Skin are observed in wide age range of individuals. They may be observed in adults and children
  • There is no known geographical, ethnic, or racial preference

What are the Risk Factors for Sebaceous Cysts of Skin? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Sebaceous Cysts of Skin may include:

  • Use of steroids and certain hormones (testosterone); hormonal imbalance in the body such as during puberty
  • Trauma that may be due to cuts and bruises, or even surgical wounds
  • Insect bites
  • Presence of other skin conditions such as acne
  • A patch of the body skin that is subject to constant friction or irritation for a period of time, such as due to a stiff collar or tight underwear
  • Genetic disorders that include basal cell nevus syndrome and Gardner syndrome

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 Sebaceous Cysts of Skin? (Etiology)

  • Sebaceous Gland Cysts of Skin occur due to obstruction of the oil glands or sebaceous glands causing it to dilate and get swollen (the hair follicles are affected and get swollen)
  • This may occur due many conditions such as skin injury, use of topical steroids, certain skin conditions, or genetic disorders

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Sebaceous Cysts of Skin?

A majority of the cysts are small-sized and asymptomatic, presenting no significant signs and symptoms. In some cases, the following signs and symptoms of Sebaceous Cysts of Skin may be noted:

  • Presence of a fluid-filled cyst that appears as a tiny bump; in most cases, more than one cyst may be present
  • The cysts may be of varying sizes; most cysts are very small (about a few mm), while some may grow larger (about 1 cm in size)
  • Redness and tenderness of the skin area; usually no pain is felt
  • Loss of hair in the affected area; the affected skin may be warmer than the surrounding skin
  • The most common sites are the head, neck, and face area, chest and back, and other parts of the trunk. In general, apart from the soles of the feet and palms of the hands, sebaceous cysts may form at any site in the body
  • Large sizes may cause discomfort and pain, depending on the location of the tumor
  • Fluid drainage from the cyst with a foul, smelly discharge

How is Sebaceous Cysts of Skin Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Sebaceous Gland Cysts of Skin may involve the following steps:

  • Evaluation of the individual’s medical history and a thorough physical examination. Usually, a visual exam by the healthcare provider is sufficient to ensure a diagnosis of the condition
  • 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
  • Additional tests may be necessary to rule out any underlying condition, if any
  • 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: Sebaceous cysts that grow rapidly, or often result in abscess formation, and/or recur frequently may need to be tested for malignancy, in some cases.

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 Sebaceous Cysts of Skin?

No significant complications of Sebaceous Gland Cysts of Skin are noted, because it is a benign condition. However, the following may be observed in some cases:

  • Cosmetic concerns, especially if the cysts are present on the face, neck, or at other prominent locations
  • Abscess formation resulting in infections; this may result in associated signs and symptoms including fever
  • The cysts may rupture and bleed resulting in secondary infections; this may also result in scar formation
  • Damage to the muscles, vital nerves, and blood vessels, during surgery
  • Post-surgical infection at the wound site is a potential complication
  • Recurrence of the cyst

How is Sebaceous Cysts of Skin Treated?

Generally, no treatment is necessary for Sebaceous Cysts of Skin, since these are benign and asymptomatic lesions. Some cysts are known to subside and spontaneously regress on their own. However, the following measures may be considered either to reduce the signs and symptoms, to treat the condition, or to address any cosmetic issues:

  • Application of topical creams and gels, to bring relief from the symptoms and to provide a measure of comfort
  • Use of warm compress to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Stoppage of soaps and body creams that have strong chemicals in them; use of milder alternatives
  • Some healthcare providers may advocate an increase in vitamins A and B rich foods that can help with the healing process
  • Avoidance of synthetic and tight-fitting clothes for a period of time
  • Maintain proper personal hygiene
  • In some cases, the cysts may get secondarily infected. If bacteria is the cause of infection, it may be treated through antibiotics
  • If the antibiotics does not clear the infection, then an abscess drainage through a surgical procedure may be performed
  • Use of laser therapy to remove the cysts
  • Surgical intervention with complete excision can result in a complete cure; a simple excision or a punch biopsy may be undertaken
  • Post-operative care is important: Minimum activity level is to be ensured until the surgical wound heals
  • Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Sebaceous Cysts of Skin be Prevented?

  • Current medical research has not established a method of preventing Sebaceous Cysts of Skin
  • Ensure good personal hygiene
  • Avoid picking, scratching, or popping the blisters/cysts
  • Avoid tight-fitting dress and dress made of synthetic material until the cysts heal

What is the Prognosis of Sebaceous Cysts of Skin? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

  • The prognosis of Sebaceous Cysts of Skin is generally excellent, since these are benign lesions
  • If required, appropriate treatment through conservative therapy can help reduce the symptoms of the Dermal Sebaceous Cysts and bring relief to the affected individual

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Sebaceous Cysts of Skin:

  • Sebaceous Cyst of Skin is not an infectious condition and it does not spread from one individual to another
  • There is no definitive proof that certain types of diet may influence its development
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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH

Assistant Medical Director, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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