Sebaceous cysts, also known as epidermal cysts, are small lumps or nodules under the skin filled with keratin. Sebaceous cysts are typically harmless and do not always need treatment. However, sebaceous cysts can also rupture and cause inflammation, resulting in the formation of an abscess
Sebaceous cysts are lumps formed under the skin filled with keratin [1]. The name ‘sebaceous cyst’ has been described by many as a misnomer, as the cysts are not mainly composed of sebum [1, 2]. Sebaceous cysts usually appear on the face, neck, or torso, but can form anywhere on the skin.
Although most sebaceous cysts are harmless, they can be at risk of developing into an abscess if the cyst becomes infected and inflamed. In very rare cases, a sebaceous cyst may also become malignant, most of these malignant growths transform into squamous cell carcinoma or basal cell carcinoma [1, 3].
A sebaceous cyst typically has the following features:
A sebaceous cyst may sometimes resemble a pimple. However, unlike pimples sebaceous cysts are deeper and grow slower. The main differences between a cyst and an acne lesion is as follows:
| Sebaceous cyst | Acne | |
| Location | Deeper in the skin | Closer to the skin’s surface |
| Composition | Mainly keratin | Sebum, dead skin cells, and pus in cases of inflammatory acne |
| Life span | Grows slowly, may grow for months | A single pimple may last between a few days to a few weeks |
| Appearance | Round, dome-shaped bump, typically larger and firmer than a pimple, the bump is relatively mobile | Depending on the type of acne, the lesion may appear as whiteheads, blackheads, or inflamed acne, which appears red and contains pus |
Sebaceous cysts are typically benign and may not require treatment. However, it is recommended to seek medical attention or treatment in case:
A sebaceous cyst can rupture and spill its contents to the surrounding tissue, which results in inflammation and granuloma formation [2]. Common signs of a ruptured cyst are as follows:
When a cyst is ruptured, it is highly recommended to seek medical attention to drain the cyst to facilitate healing and prevent possible complications, such as:
Sebaceous cysts originate from a follicular infundibulum, a keratin plug the blocks follicle orifice which leads to the accumulation of the keratin plug, a cyst eventually forms from the plugged keratin [1]. Most cases of sebaceous cysts are sporadic, some cysts can also be caused by genetic conditions, such as:
Sebaceous cysts are also more common in men than in women, and often develop in adulthood (30 to 40 years of age) [1].
Sebaceous cysts diagnosis is often done with a simple physical examination by your doctor, along with assessment based on your symptoms and medical history. In rare cases, your doctor may require more tests if they require more information, in particular for large or deep seated cysts. Tests to diagnose or rule out other conditions include:
Sebaceous cysts are typically benign and do not require treatment or removal. Most cases of removal are done when the cyst is located over an area that is inconvenient or when the cyst grows too big and becomes bothersome. In rare cases, cysts can become malignant. Hence, it is highly recommended to get a medical professional to examine your skin growths or lesions before performing any removal procedure. Sebaceous cysts can be treated with the following methods:
Sebaceous cysts are normally harmless lesions on the skin. They do however have the propensity to become inflamed and develop into an abscess. However, rare cases of cancer can arise from these benign growths. Hence, it is important to consult a medical professional for removal procedures. Proper assessment and diagnosis will allow your doctor to recommend the most suitable treatment option for your sebaceous cyst.
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Sebaceous cysts are typically slow growing and can last for months unlike a typical pimple that may appear within a few days. If you notice a growth anywhere on your skin that seems suspicious, it is recommended to visit a doctor to get a proper examination or diagnosis.
Removing or draining the cyst on your own may inadvertently cause more damage by spreading the contents to the nearby tissue. Furthermore, squeezing or popping cysts on your own may increase the risk of scarring and recurrence. Do not pop a sebaceous cyst.
Sebaceous cysts are not likely to go away on their own. You may leave them untreated if they do not cause any problems. However, removals should be done by a medical professional.
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