Is a Cyst a Health Problem?
Jun 05, 2024
You glance at your reflection in the mirror and that’s when you see it: a small, round bump just under your skin. At first, you think it might just be a pimple, but it looks different upon closer inspection. Could it be something more serious?
In dermatology, such bumps are often classified as cysts — but are they really a health problem? Our team at Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center specializes in diagnosing and treating these enigmatic bumps, and we’re here to answer your questions.
Cysts are fluid- or soft tissue-filled sacs that form under or on the surface of your skin. They can appear anywhere on your body, and there are lots of different types. Some are benign and barely noticeable, while others might cause discomfort and require intervention.
In fact, whether or not a cyst is considered a health problem depends on whether it causes bothersome symptoms. A few of the most common types of cysts we see at our office are:
Perhaps the most common type of cyst, acne cysts are those pesky, inflamed bumps that plague teenagers and adults alike. These cysts form when your hair follicles get clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to painful, swollen lesions beneath the surface of your skin.
Epidermoid cysts appear on your skin's surface and are typically filled with keratin, the protein that makes up hair and nails. These cysts are usually harmless unless they get infected, and then they can be painful or tender.
Pilar cysts are another type of cyst filled with keratin. These typically form on your scalp and while they’re usually benign, they can grow large and cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.
Sebaceous cysts are blocked oil glands in your skin. They're often found on the face, neck, or torso and may grow slowly over time. While typically harmless, they can become infected, which may lead to redness, pain, and drainage.
Pilonidal cysts are a specific type of cyst that occurs near your tailbone. These cysts develop when hair follicles get embedded and infected, and they can result in painful abscesses that require drainage or surgical intervention.
Sometimes referred to as mucoceles, mucous cysts commonly appear on the lips, gums, or inside the mouth. These cysts form when your salivary glands get blocked, resulting in small, fluid-filled sacs that usually rupture and heal on their own.
If you notice a cyst on your skin, don’t panic. Most aren’t cancerous, and the majority don’t even require immediate treatment. Small, asymptomatic cysts typically resolve on their own without causing any trouble — but it’s important to recognize the signs of a more serious condition.
Certain symptoms may indicate that a cyst is a health problem. Persistent pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling around a cyst could signify an infection or inflammation that needs treatment. Look for rapid growth or changes in appearance, and consider making an appointment if you experience any of these symptoms.
When treatment is necessary, we typically recommend either draining the cyst or surgical removal. Draining involves making a small incision in the cyst and expressing its contents, which relieves discomfort and reduces your risk of infection. If your cyst is large, recurrent, or causing significant symptoms, surgical removal can offer long-lasting relief.
Cysts aren’t always a cause for concern, but it's important to keep an eye on them. Consulting with a dermatologist is the best way to get a treatment plan that meets your needs, and our team is here to help. Call our Teaneck, New Jersey, office at 201-836-9696 or book an appointment online now.