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Pilar cysts
Pilar cysts, also called trichilemmal cysts, or wens, are benign cysts which occur predominately on the scalp. These cysts present as flesh colored bumps on the surface of the skin, and can vary in size from the size of a nickel to the size of a golf ball. As they grow in size they can create a dome-like bump on the skin, with a smooth texture, and are firm to the touch. The larger the Pilar cysts grow, the more pressure they cause, and the more discomfort they create. These cysts can rupture as a result of trauma, which can cause pain and infection. Pilar cysts are hereditary and are more common in middle-aged women than in men.
While pilar cysts are benign, due to the size and pressure caused by these cysts, many patients choose to have them removed. It is important to remove both the cyst and the epithelial lining to prevent the cyst from re-occurring. Although these pilar cysts are benign, many patients want these pilar cysts removed for cosmetic reasons as well.
What are the symptoms of sebaceous cysts?
The presence of a lump or growth under the skin is usually a sign that you may be developing a sebaceous cyst. Sebaceous cyst may initially appear soft, but later grow firmer as the amount of keratin builds up in the wall of the cyst. Most cysts are benign and completely harmless. At the start, the the cyst is painless, but depending on the location of the cyst, it can become irritated, erythematous, and inflamed. This inflammation can be a sign of an underlying skin infection. If the cyst becomes tender to the touch and the surrounding skin appears red and warm, the sebaceous cyst may be infected, and will need further treatment. The cyst may need to be opened and drained, allowing the infection to escape, and oral antibiotics will need to be prescribed. When the cyst becomes painful, or the surrounding skin becomes warm with a foul smelling discharge, this is a strong indication of infection. In an infection is left untreated, it can become serious. Fever, or any other systemic symptoms means that prompt medical attention is necessary.
While most sebaceous cysts pose no cancerous threat it cannot be ruled out entirely. A sebaceous cyst may be considered abnormal or possibly cancerous if it’s diameter is larger than five centimeters, or continues to recur in the same location after repeatedly being removed.
