Epidermoid Cyst

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KEY POINTS

• An epidermoid cyst is a raised, round lump under your skin that is filled with a thick, white fluid.
• Cysts may not need treatment unless they bother you.
• Treatment may include using moist heat, taking medicine, or having your healthcare provider drain or remove the cyst.

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What is an epidermoid cyst?

An epidermoid cyst is a raised, round lump under your skin that is filled with a thick, white fluid. Cysts are most often on the face, neck, chest, or shoulders, but may be on any part of your body.

What is the cause?

Epidermoid cysts may be caused by a plugged hair follicle. Dead skin cells from the outer layer of skin may grow into the hair follicle and block it. Burning, scraping, or irritating the skin may also cause a cyst to form. Your risk for cysts is higher if someone in your family has them

Epidermoid cysts are more common in men and in people 40 to 50 years old. Newborn babies may have very small epidermoid cysts called milia.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms may include:

• A firm, raised lump under your skin that may have a dark center
• Thick, white or yellow, foul-smelling fluid that may drain from the cyst

Usually, these cysts are not painful. The cyst may get red, sore, and warm, if it gets infected or irritated by clothing.

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history and examine you. A sample of fluid may be sent to the lab to check for an infection.

How is it treated?

Sometimes the cyst goes away on its own. If the cyst is painful or infected, your healthcare provider may treat the cyst by:

• Prescribing medicine to decrease swelling or treat infection
• Opening and draining the cyst
• Doing minor surgery to remove the cyst

How can I take care of myself?

Follow the full course of treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider. In addition:

• Do not squeeze the cyst. This can make it worse and cause an infection.
• Use moist heat on the cyst to help it drain and heal. Put moist heat on the cyst for up to 30 minutes. Moist heat includes moist heating pads that you can buy at most drugstores, a warm wet washcloth, or a hot shower. To prevent burns to your skin, follow directions on the package and do not lie on any type of hot pad.
• If the cyst is draining, or you have an open wound, keep it covered with a clean, dry bandage. Change the bandage if it gets dirty or wet.

Ask your provider:

• How and when you will get your test results
• If there are activities you should avoid and when you can return to your normal activities
• How to take care of yourself at home
• What symptoms or problems you should watch for and what to do if you have them

Make sure you know when you should come back for a checkup. Keep all appointments for provider visits or tests.