A cyst is a fluid filled sac that forms within the skin. These benign growths can develop at various sites on the body, such as the back, chest, limbs, face, genitals or scalp.
Most cysts are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, but they can cause discomfort or pain if they grow large or become infected. Treatment options include simple reassurance, oral antibiotics if infected or surgical removal.
A visible or palpable bump under the skin.
Pain may occur if the cyst is pressing on nearby structures or becomes infected.
The area around the cyst might become red and warm if there's an infection.
The cyst may be sensitive to touch, especially if inflamed or infected.
The cyst may grow over time or fluctuate in size.
If a cyst ruptures or is close to the skin surface, it may leak fluid.
In cases of infection, a fever may accompany other symptoms.
Depending on the location, a cyst can interfere with normal bodily functions, such as vision (in the case of an eyelid cyst) or joint movement (for a ganglion cyst).
Using over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage symptoms, such as pain or inflammation, but not necessarily to treat the cyst itself.
Removing the fluid from the cyst through a needle or small incision, especially if it’s causing discomfort or has become infected. This is often done under local anesthesia. This does not always prevent it growing back, however, as the cyst sac can refill.
Injecting steroids into the cyst can reduce inflammation and shrink it.
Depending on the size and location of the cyst, surgery might be by enucleation whereby a small incision is made across the cyst, then the sac loosened and pulled through, or a full excision procedure removes the cyst, some tissue around it and the skin above it. Both are usually closed directly to form a line scar using sutures (stitches)
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Sun: CLOSED