Cysts

Cysts are one of the most common benign skin growths. A cyst consists of a sac or enclosed capsule filled with fluid or semisolid material. They typically appear as round or dome-shaped nodules or lumps on or underneath the skin. The overlying skin may remain unchanged or display a small opening called a punctum.

Common locations for cysts include the scalp, neck, and back, though they can develop anywhere on the body. When pressure is applied to the cyst, a malodorous, cheesy discharge can be expressed.

Though cysts are benign and not harmful by nature, they can sometimes become inflamed, resembling signs of a skin infection. The affected area can become painful and red.

Treatment

Treatment options for inflamed cysts include warm compresses, oral antibiotics, intralesional steroid injections, and incision and drainage. Definitive treatment of any cyst involves surgical excision, including removal of the entire sac or capsule to prevent recurrence.