Epidermoid Cyst

An epidermoid cyst is a lump under the skin filled with keratin. They are slow-growing, painless lump, they are also very common and non-cancerous. If you notice lumps on your skin, make sure to have them checked out by the best dermatologist in East New York for proper diagnosis. Contact Doral Health and Wellness Dermatology Center immediately and talk to our specialists.

An epidermoid cyst is often confused with a sebaceous cyst. Sebaceous cysts are less common and their contents consist of a clear, oily liquid. An epidermoid cyst is often a result of a damaged hair follicle or the outer layer of the skin.

An epidermoid cyst has two features: the lining and the contents. The lining is made up of skin cells, which secretes keratin. And keratin is the material that makes up the hair and the outer layer of the skin.

Epidermoid cysts are often found on your head, neck, back, and sometimes on your genitals, and they can also vary in size but are usually small bumps.

Symptoms

Epidermoid cysts are usually painless unless they become infected. Its main symptom is a small movable lump under the skin that becomes red and/or warm when inflamed. It can vary in size and can also occur in infants. Epidermoid cysts can appear anywhere in the body but are most typically found on the:

  • Face
  • Ears
  • Neck
  • Chest
  • Upper back
  • Scrotum
  • Vulva

Causes

An epidermoid cyst occurs when the hair follicle is blocked, and keratin which occurs naturally in skin cells is trapped below the skin. This could also develop due to trauma to the skin. Or could be caused by an underlying genetic disorder, such as Gardner syndrome.

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.

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.