Do you have a small lump on your skin and you’re not sure whether or not you should worry?
In this article, we will explore in detail what they are, why they appear, whether they pose any danger to your health, and the options available to remove them.
What are skin cysts?
Skin cysts are closed sacs that contain fluid, semisolid matter, or air, and can form in several layers of the skin.
Epidermoid cysts, specifically, are benign cysts that develop from blocked hair follicles or oil glands in the skin.
They often have a round or oval appearance and can range in size from small to large.
Although they are generally not painful, they can cause discomfort if they become infected or inflamed.
Types of cysts
There are various types of cysts that can develop on the skin, each with distinctive characteristics and possible causes.
Some of the most common types include:
- Epidermoid cysts: These form from blocked hair follicles or sebaceous glands in the skin.
- Milium Cysts: These are small white cysts that form under the skin and are filled with keratin, a protein present in the skin.
- Dermoid cysts: These develop from embryonic cells and may contain a variety of tissues, such as hair, skin, and fat.
- Pilar Cysts: They form around hair follicles and may contain hair and skin.
- Retention cysts: These occur when an oil gland or hair follicle becomes clogged and fills with fluid.
Why do epidermoid cysts appear?
Skin cysts, such as epidermoid cysts, can arise due to a variety of factors, including:
- Blockage of hair follicles or sebaceous glands, which may be caused by the buildup of dead skin cells, excessive sebum production, or blockage by foreign objects.
- Trauma or injuries to the skin, which can predispose to the formation of cysts.
- Genetic factors that increase susceptibility to developing this type of cysts.
Are skin cysts dangerous?
In most cases, these types of cysts, including epidermoid cysts, are benign and do not pose a health hazard. However, they can become painful or uncomfortable if they become infected, inflamed, or grow too large.
Rarely, cysts can become cancerous, but this is extremely rare in epidermoid cysts.
How to eliminate skin cysts?
There are several medical options available, depending on the size, location and severity of the cysts.
1. Observation and monitoring
In some cases, small, painless cysts may not need treatment and can simply be observed and monitored for any changes.
2. Topical medications
In cases of inflamed or infected cysts, topical medications, such as antibiotic or steroid creams, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
3. Drainage
For large or infected cysts, drainage may be performed through an incision to remove fluid or material accumulated in the cyst.
4. Surgery
In persistent or recurrent cases, or if the cyst causes significant symptoms, surgical removal of the cyst may be recommended.
This surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia and may involve removing the entire cyst, including the capsule surrounding it, to prevent recurrences.
Epidermoid cyst surgery in Madrid
In our specialized center, we offer effective solutions for the management of epidermoid cysts and other skin conditions.
Our team of experts has extensive experience in the removal and treatment of cysts, providing comprehensive, quality care to our patients.
If you are looking for treatment for epidermoid cysts in Madrid performed by expert and trusted professionals, do not hesitate to contact us.
