Sebaceous Cyst Treatment

Sebaceous cysts occur just beneath the surface of the skin and appear like round lumps on the surface of the skin. They are painless and free moving cysts, which grow very slowly. Sometimes, it can get infected, causing inflammation, redness and pain. Even though, this cyst can develop on any part of the body (except the soles and palms), the susceptible areas are the scalp, ears, face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. Some people have sebaceous cysts on the genitalia too. In some cases, the term sebaceous cyst is used interchangeably with epidermal/epidermoid cysts and pilar cysts. But, it is also contended that all the three are different.

What are Sebaceous Cysts?

As mentioned above, these cysts develop beneath the skin. Sebaceous cysts are like a sac of cells, filled with a white semi-liquid substance with a foul odor. These bumps on the skin are usually round in shape with a smooth surface with no growth of hair (if it is present for a long period). It has been observed that these cysts vary in size and are more commonly found in hairy areas. The contents of the cysts may also vary but mostly it is the liquid that is present. In some cases, sebaceous cysts contain fibrous tissue and small amounts of fluid. In case of infected ones, the contents can include pus and bloody material. Skin trauma, swollen hair follicles, blocked sebaceous glands, etc. are found to be behind the occurrence of these cysts. Apart from that, some people develop sebaceous cysts due to high testosterone levels. There are some reported cases, wherein sebaceous cysts are found to be caused by the attack of the human botfly. Some genetic causes are also attributed to the occurrence of this condition.

Treatment for Sebaceous Cysts

Sebaceous cysts are not generally fatal or life-threatening, but, in some rare cases, it can be cancerous too. Usually, these cysts are harmless and may disappear on their own. But, an inflamed one can cause inflammation, redness and tenderness of the area and slight pain. It can also increase the temperature in and around the bumps. While small cysts may not cause any trouble, infected ones can be troublesome and need sebaceous cyst treatment. In some cases, big sebaceous cysts can be unsightly or may affect the daily activities. Such cysts also require medical attention.

The most common treatment for sebaceous cysts is surgery, which is done to remove the cyst. It is a simple surgery that removes the entire cyst along with its contents, so that it does not recur. However, it can recur in some people, who are prone to this condition. Surgery can be in the form of a traditional wide excision, punch biopsy excision or minimal excision. In case of surgical removal of an infected cyst, the person will be administered antibiotics, both before and after the surgery. In case of small infected cysts, the most common sebaceous cyst treatment is an injection of steroids into the cysts. Sebaceous cyst home treatment for infected cysts include application of a warm moist cloth three to four times a day (for three days). The cyst will drain and heal on its own. Periodical application of heating pads over the cyst is another treatment for a sebaceous cyst. If you are looking for sebaceous cyst natural treatment, you have to approach a homeopathic or herbal practitioner. Sebaceous cyst scalp treatment is also the same as the treatment of such cysts on any other part of the body.

Now you know more about sebaceous cysts and treatment for this condition, especially infected sebaceous cyst treatment. If you notice a bump on the skin, which is gradually growing in size, it will be better to consult a doctor, to find out whether it is a sebaceous cyst or not. If it is a sebaceous cyst, refrain from squeezing, scratching or puncturing the cyst and keep the area clean. Even though, it is said that sebaceous cysts are not preventable, some health experts recommend good skin care, avoidance of excess sunlight and oily cosmetics for this purpose.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.