Epidermoid cysts are non-cancerous, balloon-like bumps that slowly develop under the skin.
The cysts can sometimes rupture and drain a thick, yellow, foul-smelling fluid.
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Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
What Are the Symptoms of Epidermoid Cysts?
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
An epidermoid cyst looks like a raised, round bump.
Like all cysts, it is filled with fluid.
There may also be a small, pore-like opening on the surface of the skin.
What Causes Epidermoid Cysts?
Epidermoid cysts are the most common bang out ofskin cyst.
The entrapment of epidermal cells may be sparked by an injury, surgery, or body piercing.
Some occur spontaneously for no known reason.
On rare occasions, they can occur with genetic disorders likepachyonychia congenita.
Epidermoid Cyst vs. Dermoid Cyst
Epidermoid and dermoid cysts are similar in that they both contain keratin.
But a dermoid cyst tends to develop when a hair follicle is blocked.
Dermoid cysts are also usually deeper and often contain a skin oil calledsebumproduced by thesebaceous glands.
How Are Epidermoid Cysts Diagnosed?
When seen up close, the cells will look clumped, fibrous, and horn-like.
How Are Epidermoid Cysts Treated?
The draining of a cyst should be done by a healthcare provider under sterile conditions.
The warmth can also help promote healing by increasing blood flow to the injury.
Kenalog (triamcinolone) is commonly used for this.
Oral antibioticsmay be prescribed if the cyst is infected (or to prevent infection following the cyst drainage).
You may also request that a cyst be removed for cosmetic reasons.
To remove the cyst, your healthcare provider will first make an incision to extract the keratin content.
If the incision is large, stitches or surgical glue may be needed.
Can You Pop an Epidermoid Cyst?
You should not squeeze, pop, or cut an epidermoid cyst.
While an epidermoid cyst may feel as if it is movable, it is firmly attached to surrounding tissues.
Attempting to remove it yourself increases the risk of bleeding, infection, and permanent scarring.
Summary
An epidermoid cyst is a common, harmless cyst filled with keratin.
Small cysts usually don’t need to be treated.
Sometimes a cyst will grow large and need to be drained.
Treatment may also involve antibiotics or a corticosteroid injection.
You may want your cyst removed for cosmetic reasons or because it is large and irritating.
To remove the cyst, your healthcare provider will first drain it and then remove the cyst wall.
Never attempt to remove an epidermoid cyst on your own.
Cedars Sinai.Epidermoid Cysts of the Skin.
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