Epidermoid Cyst

An epidermoid cyst, also known as an epidermal inclusion cyst or keratin cyst, is a type of skin cyst that forms when a small piece of skin is trapped beneath the surface of the skin. This can occur due to various reasons such as injury, surgery, or blockage of a hair follicle or oil gland.

Causes and Risk Factors

Epidermoid cysts are usually caused by the following factors:

• Blockage of a hair follicle or oil gland, leading to accumulation of keratin, a protein found in skin cells
• Injury or trauma to the skin, which can cause skin cells to be trapped beneath the surface
• Surgical procedures, such as biopsies or excisions, which can introduce skin cells into deeper tissue
• Genetic conditions, such as Gardner syndrome, which increase the risk of developing epidermoid cysts

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of an epidermoid cyst may include:

• A small, firm lump or bump under the skin, usually on the face, neck, or trunk
• Pain or tenderness when touched or pressed
• Redness and swelling around the cyst
• Discharge of a thick, cheesy material from the cyst

Diagnosis is typically made through physical examination and medical history. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Treatment for epidermoid cysts usually involves surgical removal of the cyst. This can be done under local anesthesia, and the procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour. In some cases, the cyst may be drained or aspirated, but this is not always effective and may lead to recurrence.

Other treatment options include:

• Intralesional steroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Antibiotics to treat any secondary infections
• Laser therapy or other minimally invasive procedures to remove the cyst

Complications and Prognosis

Epidermoid cysts are usually benign and do not cause significant health problems. However, if left untreated, they can become infected or inflamed, leading to complications such as:

• Abscess formation, which requires drainage or surgical intervention
• Scarring or keloid formation after surgery
• Recurrence of the cyst after treatment

The prognosis for epidermoid cysts is generally good, with most people experiencing complete resolution of symptoms after treatment. However, it is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over time.