Epidermoid Cysts, also known as sebaceous cysts, are the most common cyst of the skin. It ranges in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. Its contents are a cheesy, malodorous mixture of lipid and keratin. Cysts can stay quiescent, or they can become painful and inflamed and rupture. Treatment varies depending on discomfort, location and size, and includes injections of cortisone, incision and drainage, or an excision.
What is a cyst?
Epidermoid Cysts, also known as sebaceous cysts, are the most common cyst of the skin. It ranges in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. Its contents are a cheesy, malodorous mixture of lipid and keratin. Cysts can stay quiescent, or they can become painful and inflamed and rupture.
What are other types of cysts?
Sebaceous and epidermoid cysts are the most common types of cyst that affects the skin. They form when a hair follicle is damaged or a duct becomes blocked, and fluid becomes trapped in a sac beneath the skin.
Ganglion cysts mainly appear near joints and on tendons. They are filled with a jelly-like material and vary in size. They are benign, but can become painful if they press on a nerve as they grow and can make joint movement difficult - this is usually why they will be removed by a surgeon..
Pilar cysts grow on the scalp and can lead to hair loss in the area where the cyst is located. They can be surgically excised once properly evaluated.
Digital mucous cysts form at the base of fingernails and toenails and contain a thick, sticky fluid, which lubricates joints. They usually look like a clear bubble and resemble blisters.
What is the treatment for cysts?
Treatment varies depending on discomfort, location and size. Our providers will evaluate your cyst and determine the treatment, which can include injections of cortisone, incision and drainage, or an excision.
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