Epidermoid cysts commonly form when skin cells move into the deeper layers of the skin instead of being naturally shed from the surface. Once trapped beneath the skin, these cells continue to grow and form a sac or wall, which gradually fills with keratin—a soft, yellowish protein that is also a key component of hair, nails, and the outer layer of skin. Over time, this build-up creates a visible lump beneath the skin’s surface.
These cysts often result from:
Damaged or clogged hair follicles
Skin trauma, such as abrasions or surgical wounds
Inflammatory skin conditions like acne
Genetic disorders, in rare cases (such as Gardner’s syndrome or basal cell nevus syndrome)
Though generally harmless, epidermoid cysts can sometimes become inflamed, swollen, or infected, especially if they are scratched, squeezed, or irritated. In such cases, the cyst may become red, tender, and filled with pus, mimicking an abscess.
If you notice any unusual lumps or bumps on your skin, it’s important to seek a professional evaluation. Contact Dermatology – Doral Health & Wellness NY and consult with one of our skilled dermatologists for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of Epidermoid Cysts
Epidermoid cysts are typically harmless and painless, especially when they are small and not inflamed. In many cases, people may not even realize they have one until it becomes more noticeable.
The most common symptom is a small, round, movable lump under the skin. The lump is usually flesh-colored or slightly yellowish, and it may have a visible central opening, known as a punctum, which looks like a small blackhead.
However, when a cyst becomes irritated or infected, additional symptoms may appear, including:
Redness and warmth around the lump
Tenderness or pain in the area
Swelling or a feeling of pressure
Foul-smelling, cheesy discharge if the cyst ruptures
Inflammation that can mimic a skin abscess
While they are more common in adults, epidermoid cysts can also occur in infants and children, though less frequently.
These cysts can vary in size, from just a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter, and are most commonly found on areas where oil glands are abundant, such as:
Face
Ears
Neck
Chest
Upper back
Scrotum
Vulva
Although they are benign, it’s important to monitor any changes in your skin. If a cyst becomes painful, grows rapidly, or begins to drain fluid, it should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out infection or other conditions.
Causes
Epidermoid cysts often form when skin cells move deeper into your skin instead of shedding off. These cells then multiply and form the cyst wall, continuing to secrete keratin inside. A damaged hair follicle, skin trauma, or acne can also lead to cyst formation.
Many people mistakenly refer to epidermoid cysts as sebaceous cysts, but they are not the same. Sebaceous cysts are rarer and arise from oil (sebaceous) glands, usually filled with a clear, oily substance rather than keratin.
Diagnosis
Doctors can easily diagnose your condition by simply looking at your cyst and examining your bump and its surrounding skin. They can also take a skin sample and have it sent to the laboratory for examination and further tests to see if it is cancerous.
Epidermoid Cyst vs. Sebaceous Cyst: What’s the Difference?
Many people mistakenly call epidermoid cysts “sebaceous cysts,” but the two are not the same. While both appear as lumps beneath the skin, their origin and contents differ:
Epidermoid cysts: Arise from the epidermal cells and are filled with keratin (a thick, cheese-like material).
Sebaceous cysts: Form from the sebaceous (oil) glands and are filled with a clear, oily substance known as sebum. These are much less common than epidermoid cysts.
This distinction is important, as treatment and management approaches may vary.
Treatment
An epidermoid cyst can be left alone especially if they do not cause any problem at all. But your medical provider can suggest removing it surgically if:
- it gets infected
- if they interfere with your everyday life
- for cosmetic purposes
But if your epidermoid cyst has these characteristics, see your doctor immediately:
- grows rapidly
- ruptures and becomes infected
- is in a spot that constantly gets irritated
- bothers you for any cosmetic reason
- is in an unusual location, such as the fingers or genitalia
It is important to note not to remove an epidermoid cyst at home, as it can result to other complications.
An epidermoid cyst is mostly harmless and does not cause long-term problems. If you notice cysts on your skin, do not attempt to squeeze out its content as it can lead to inflammation and infection. It is best to see your medical provider to receive a correct and proper diagnosis.
At Doral Health and Wellness Dermatology Center, we have the best dermatologists that can help you take care of your skin and treat your skin problems. As dermatology experts in East New York, we are dedicated in providing the best services. You can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11212, to schedule an appointment. You can also call us at 1-347-384-5690 or visit our website at https://www.bestbrooklyndermatologist.com.
