What are cysts?
Cysts are closed pockets of tissue that can be filled with fluid, pus, or other material. They can occur anywhere on the body and may or may not be painful. While oftentimes cysts remain stable, some may continue to grow. Most cysts are benign and not harmful, but due to risk of infection or uncomfortable symptoms, some may require treatment or removal.
There is a risk that the cyst can become inflamed or rupture, when a cyst ruptures it poses a high risk for infection and should be treated by a medical professional. Removal of these growths is often a simple procedure that can be performed by The Iowa Clinic Dermatology Department.
There are several types of cysts and fatty tumors that can occur on the skin. A few of the common ones are lipomas, pilodial cysts, and subaceous cysts.
Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) fatty tumors that develop under the skin. They are usually soft, movable, and painless. Lipomas can occur anywhere on the body but are commonly found on the back, neck, shoulders, and arms. The cause of lipomas is unknown, but they tend to run in families. Lipoma removal is a common procedure that can be done by a dermatologist.
A pilonidal cyst is a pocket or small sac that develops at the bottom of the tailbone. It is often filled with hair, skin debris, and other materials. The cause of pilonidal cysts is not clear, but they are often associated with an ingrown hair. Pilonidal cysts are more common in young men and are often recurring. Prolonged sitting can increase your risk of a pilonidal cyst. Symptoms of pilonidal cysts may include pain, swelling, and redness. In severe cases, the cyst may become infected, causing fever, nausea, and drainage of pus. Pilonidal cyst surgery is the most common treatment for this condition.
A sebaceous cyst is a small, painless lump that forms under the skin. These cysts are filled with, a waxy substance called sebum that lubricates the skin and hair. Sebaceous cysts are commonly found on the face, neck, and back. The cause of sebaceous cysts is often unknown, but they can be associated with a blocked oil gland. Symptoms of sebaceous cysts may include a small, painless lump under the skin that is soft to the touch. Sebaceous cyst removal is a common procedure that involves making a small incision in the skin and removing the cyst.
What causes cysts?
Cysts can develop for a variety of reasons, including:
- Blocked glands: Cysts can form when skin glands become blocked, leading to the buildup of fluid or other material.
- Damaged hair follicle or oil gland: An epidermoid cyst can occur when surface skin cells move deeper into the skin and multiply, this abnormal cell growth can be due to damaged hair follicle or oil gland in the skin.
- Infections: Cysts can form because of infections, such as acne or a bacterial infection.
- Trauma: Cysts can also develop because of trauma to the skin or underlying tissue, such as a blow to the head or a sports injury.
- Pilonidal cysts: These cysts are caused by a hair puncturing the skin then becoming embedded. Pilonidal cysts almost always appear at the tailbone just above the buttocks and pose a risk for infection.
What are the symptoms of a cyst?
The symptoms of a cyst can vary depending on its location and size. Some common signs and symptoms include:
- A small, painless lump under the skin
- Flesh-colored or whitish-yellow smooth-surfaced lumps
- A bump that grows slowly over time
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness in the affected area
- Pain or discomfort if the cyst is large or pressing on a nerve
- Drainage of a thick, foul-smelling fluid
How do you treat a cyst?
The treatment for a cyst depends on its size, location, and severity. In most cases, a cyst can be left alone if it is small and not causing any symptoms. However, if the cyst is large or causing pain, discomfort, or is infected, it may need to be drained or removed.
- Drainage: A doctor can drain the fluid from a cyst by making a small incision and squeezing out the contents. This can help to relieve pain and reduce swelling, but the cyst may fill up again and require additional drainage.
- Removal: A doctor can remove a cyst surgically if it is causing significant pain, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns. This involves making a small incision and removing the cyst and its contents. In some cases, the entire cyst may need to be removed to prevent recurrence.
The removal of cysts and fatty tumors is a common dermatological procedure that can be done in a dermatologist's office. It is important to discuss these procedures with your dermatologist to determine if they are right for you. Call to schedule your appointment today at 515.875.9766 with The Iowa Clinic Dermatology.