Skin Cysts Demystified: From Diagnosis to Effective Remova

Mirari Doctor

Skin cysts are common benign lumps that form under the skin surface, containing fluid or semi-solid material. While generally harmless, growing or painful cysts may require medical intervention. This comprehensive guide explores different types of skin cysts, their causes, diagnosis and possible treatments. Overview of Cutaneous Cysts Cutaneous cysts encompass various closed pockets or sacs within skin layers, lined by epithelium and filled with liquid, air or semi-solid keratinous, sebaceous or serous material. They often arise from hair follicles or sebaceous glands blocked by keratin accumulation. While cysts can occur anywhere on skin, common sites include head, neck, trunk and genitals. Most often painless, some may become tender, inflamed or pruritic. If the cyst wall ruptures, contents spill causing local reactions. Rarely, infection develops. Though unsightly or bothersome, benign cysts pose little health risk. But differentiation from malignant lesions is vital. Treatment aims to alleviate troublesome symptoms or cosmetic concerns. This guide covers key cyst types, manifestations and management options. What Causes Epidermoid or Sebaceous Cyst Formation? Epidermoid cysts, also called infundibular cysts or sebaceous cysts, stem from plugged hair follicles with keratin buildup. The keratinized dead skin accumulates within the follicle bulb. Meanwhile, the follicle's sebaceous gland secretions contribute to the cystic content. As the cyst slowly enlarges, surrounding tissue proliferates forming a fibrous capsule that segregates it from healthy skin. The slow-growing spherical cysts have varied consistency from doughy to firm. Common over body, they often arise on face, neck and trunk. Predisposing factors for epidermoid cysts include: Accumulated dead skin cells, sebum and debris clogging hair folliclesInjury or surgery that pushes deeper skin layer cells inwardHormonal imbalance stimulating sebum oversecretionGenetic conditions causing Gardner's syndrome or basal cell nevus syndromeLeaving benign epidermoid cysts alone causes no harm, unless rapidly expanding or symptomatic. Cosmetic or social concerns may necessitate removal too. Read more: https://miraridoctor.com/blog/skin-cyst/