Content
The sebaceous cyst is a type of lump that forms under the skin, composed of a substance called sebum, with a round shape, which measures a few centimeters and can appear in any region of the body. It is generally soft to the touch, can move when touched or pressed, and is generally painless.
However, when the sebaceous cyst is inflamed, it can cause symptoms such as pain, increased temperature in the region, tenderness and redness, requiring medical treatment. In this case, the most suitable doctor is the dermatologist, who may recommend a minor surgery to remove the cyst.
Possible causes
The sebaceous cyst forms when a sebaceous gland clogs, causing a progressive accumulation of fat in that region, causing it to increase in size. The sebaceous gland or its duct may clog due to an injury to the area, such as a cut or sore, or it may be a consequence of acne.
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What symptoms
Although sebaceous cysts are more common in the back, neck and head, they can appear in any region of the body, with the exception of the palms and soles of the feet.
Sebaceous cysts, when they appear on the back, can cause greater discomfort when the individual is sleeping, especially when it is an inflamed cyst.
The sebaceous cyst in the head can cause pain when the individual washes or combs the hair and, in some cases, it can be very visible, as in the case of baldness.
How the treatment is done
Generally, sebaceous cysts are not dangerous or cause symptoms. However, the person may wish to eliminate these cysts for aesthetic reasons, as they can often reach a considerable size.
It is not recommended to squeeze the cyst or try to remove it yourself, as it can infect and damage the tissues around it. However, a tip that can help remove the sebaceous cyst at home is to place a hot water bottle for 15 minutes in the region, which promotes dilation and facilitates the spontaneous exit of its contents. See another home remedy to remove the sebaceous cyst.
To completely remove the sebaceous cyst, the ideal is to go to the doctor, who must evaluate the cyst, in order to understand if it is indicated to resort to surgery, which can be performed in the doctor's office, under local anesthesia. When the cyst is inflamed, the doctor may advise that before the surgery, the patient will take antibiotics for 5 or 7 days, to avoid infections.
What is surgery
Surgery for the sebaceous cyst is relatively simple, being performed in a doctor's office under local anesthesia. Generally, surgery is indicated for cysts that measure more than 1 cm in diameter or that are infected, as can occur when trying to squeeze, for example. After removing the content of the cyst, the doctor may give some points in the area and perform a dressing that should be changed as indicated.
Sebaceous cysts are generally benign, however, after their removal, the doctor may send part of their content for laboratory analysis, to exclude the chances of being a cancer, especially if the individual has already had cancer or if there are cases of the disease in the family .