What are sebaceous cysts. How do sebaceous cysts form. What are the symptoms of sebaceous cysts. How are sebaceous cysts diagnosed. What treatments are available for sebaceous cysts. Can sebaceous cysts become complicated. Are sebaceous cysts preventable.

The Nature of Sebaceous Cysts: Debunking Common Misconceptions

Sebaceous cysts, often misunderstood and mislabeled, are a common dermatological condition that affects many individuals. However, the term “sebaceous cyst” is frequently used incorrectly. In reality, what most people refer to as sebaceous cysts are actually epidermal cysts. These are closed sacs beneath the skin filled with dead skin cells, not sebum as the name might suggest.

True sebaceous cysts, known medically as steatocystomas, contain oily, yellowish material. This distinction is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Epidermal cysts, on the other hand, form when surface skin folds inward, trapping dead skin cells that would normally be shed.

Key Differences Between Epidermal and Sebaceous Cysts

• Epidermal cysts: Filled with dead skin cells
• Sebaceous cysts (steatocystomas): Contain yellowish, oily material
• Formation: Epidermal cysts result from inward-folding skin, while sebaceous cysts involve sebaceous glands

Understanding these differences can help patients and healthcare providers alike in accurately identifying and addressing these skin conditions.

The Etiology of Epidermal Cysts: Unraveling the Mystery

The exact cause of epidermal cysts remains somewhat enigmatic. While the mechanism of their formation is understood – surface skin folding inward and trapping dead skin cells – the trigger for this process is not always clear. Several factors may contribute to their development:

1. Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have a family history of epidermal cysts
2. Skin trauma: Damage to the skin or hair follicles may lead to cyst formation
3. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels might play a role
4. Certain skin conditions: Acne or other skin disorders may increase the likelihood of cyst development

Interestingly, epidermal cysts are more prevalent in adults than in children, suggesting that age-related factors may also contribute to their formation. As research continues, our understanding of the underlying causes may evolve, potentially leading to more effective prevention strategies.

Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Epidermal Cysts

Epidermal cysts typically manifest as small, non-painful lumps beneath the skin. These growths are most commonly found on the face, neck, and trunk. A distinguishing feature of epidermal cysts is the presence of a tiny hole or pit in the center, which is actually the opening of the hair follicle from which the cyst originated.

While these cysts are usually benign and painless, they can sometimes become infected or inflamed, leading to additional symptoms. In such cases, individuals may experience:

• Redness of the skin surrounding the cyst
• Tenderness or soreness in the affected area
• Warmth emanating from the cyst and surrounding skin
• Drainage of a grayish-white, cheesy substance with an unpleasant odor

It’s important to note that the size of epidermal cysts can vary. They typically grow slowly and may reach a certain size before stopping. However, rapid growth or sudden changes in appearance should prompt medical evaluation to rule out other conditions.

Diagnostic Approaches: Identifying Epidermal Cysts with Confidence

Accurate diagnosis of epidermal cysts is crucial for appropriate management. In most cases, healthcare providers can make a diagnosis through a thorough physical examination of the skin. The characteristic appearance of these cysts – small, round lumps with a central pore – often allows for straightforward identification.

However, in some instances, additional diagnostic measures may be necessary:

Biopsy

If there’s uncertainty about the nature of the growth or to rule out other skin conditions, a biopsy may be performed. This involves removing a small sample of the cyst for microscopic examination.

Skin Culture

When infection is suspected, a skin culture may be taken. This test helps identify any bacteria present and guides antibiotic treatment if necessary.

Imaging Studies

In rare cases where the cyst is particularly large or located in a concerning area, imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI might be employed to assess the extent of the growth and its relationship to surrounding structures.

These diagnostic tools enable healthcare providers to differentiate epidermal cysts from other skin growths, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate care.

Treatment Modalities: Managing Epidermal Cysts Effectively

The approach to treating epidermal cysts depends largely on whether they’re causing symptoms or showing signs of inflammation. Many cysts remain asymptomatic and don’t require intervention. However, when treatment is necessary, several options are available:

Home Care

For mildly inflamed cysts, applying a warm, moist compress to the area can help promote drainage and healing. This simple remedy often provides relief and may be sufficient for small, uncomplicated cysts.

Steroid Injection

If a cyst becomes inflamed and swollen, a healthcare provider may inject it with steroid medication. This can reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

Drainage

For larger or more troublesome cysts, drainage may be necessary. This procedure involves making a small incision in the cyst and expressing its contents. While effective for immediate relief, drainage doesn’t remove the cyst wall, so recurrence is possible.

Surgical Excision

Complete surgical removal is the most definitive treatment for epidermal cysts. This procedure removes both the cyst and its wall, minimizing the chance of recurrence. It’s typically recommended for large, persistent, or recurrent cysts.

Antibiotics

If an epidermal cyst becomes infected, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to combat the infection. This is often used in conjunction with other treatments to address both the infection and the cyst itself.

The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the size and location of the cyst, the presence of symptoms, and the patient’s overall health. A healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate approach based on individual circumstances.

Potential Complications: When Epidermal Cysts Become Problematic

While epidermal cysts are generally benign and often cause no significant issues, they can sometimes lead to complications. Being aware of these potential problems can help individuals seek timely medical attention when necessary.

Infection and Abscess Formation

One of the primary concerns with epidermal cysts is the risk of infection. When bacteria enter the cyst, it can lead to inflammation and the formation of a painful abscess. This complication requires prompt medical attention and may necessitate drainage and antibiotic treatment.

Rupture and Inflammation

Cysts can sometimes rupture, especially if they’ve become large or are subject to trauma. When this occurs, the contents of the cyst spill into the surrounding tissue, causing inflammation and potentially leading to the formation of multiple smaller cysts in the area.

Scarring

Following infection, rupture, or surgical removal, there’s a possibility of scarring. While usually minimal, the extent of scarring can depend on the size of the cyst and the method of treatment.

Recurrence

If a cyst is not completely removed, including its wall, there’s a chance it may recur. This is why surgical excision, which removes the entire cyst structure, is often the preferred treatment for problematic cysts.

Rare Malignant Transformation

In extremely rare cases, long-standing epidermal cysts may undergo malignant transformation. While this occurrence is exceptionally uncommon, it underscores the importance of having any changing or persistent skin growths evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Understanding these potential complications helps individuals make informed decisions about when to seek medical advice and treatment for their epidermal cysts.

Prevention and Management: Strategies for Dealing with Epidermal Cysts

While it may not always be possible to prevent epidermal cysts entirely, there are strategies that can help reduce their occurrence and manage existing ones effectively:

Maintain Good Skin Hygiene

Regular cleansing and exfoliation can help prevent the buildup of dead skin cells that contribute to cyst formation. However, it’s important to be gentle to avoid irritating the skin.

Avoid Squeezing or Picking

Attempting to squeeze or pop a cyst can lead to infection and inflammation. It’s best to leave cysts alone unless under the care of a healthcare provider.

Protect Your Skin

Minimize skin trauma by wearing protective gear during activities that could lead to cuts or abrasions. This may help reduce the risk of cyst formation in susceptible individuals.

Monitor Existing Cysts

Keep an eye on any cysts you may have. If you notice changes in size, color, or if they become painful, seek medical evaluation promptly.

Consider Professional Removal

For individuals prone to recurrent cysts or those with cysts in cosmetically sensitive areas, discussing preventive removal with a dermatologist may be beneficial.

Address Underlying Skin Conditions

If you have acne or other skin disorders that may contribute to cyst formation, work with a healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively.

By implementing these strategies and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, individuals can often effectively manage epidermal cysts and minimize their impact on daily life.

Living with Epidermal Cysts: Psychological and Social Considerations

While epidermal cysts are typically benign from a medical standpoint, they can have significant psychological and social impacts on those affected. Understanding and addressing these aspects is crucial for comprehensive care and support.

Body Image Concerns

Cysts, especially when visible on the face or neck, can affect an individual’s self-esteem and body image. This may lead to social anxiety or self-consciousness in personal and professional settings.

Misconceptions and Stigma

There’s often a lack of public understanding about epidermal cysts, which can lead to misconceptions about their cause or contagiousness. Educating others can help reduce stigma and increase support.

Impact on Quality of Life

Large or numerous cysts may interfere with daily activities or clothing choices, potentially affecting an individual’s quality of life and social interactions.

Coping Strategies

• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
• Discuss concerns with healthcare providers to explore treatment options
• Practice self-care and stress-reduction techniques
• Consider counseling if cysts are causing significant emotional distress

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of living with epidermal cysts, individuals can maintain a positive outlook and effectively manage their condition.

Epidermal cysts, while often benign, can present challenges both medically and psychologically. By understanding their nature, recognizing symptoms, and being aware of treatment options, individuals can navigate this common skin condition with confidence. Regular communication with healthcare providers and a proactive approach to skin health can help manage epidermal cysts effectively, minimizing their impact on daily life and well-being.

Sebaceous cyst Information | Mount Sinai

Epidermal cyst; Keratin cyst; Epidermal inclusion cyst; Follicular infundibular cyst

An epidermoid cyst is a closed sac under the skin, or a skin lump, filled with dead skin cells.

Causes

Epidermal cysts are very common. Their cause is unknown. The cysts are formed when the surface skin is folded in on itself. The cyst then becomes filled with dead skin because as the skin grows, it can’t be shed as it can elsewhere on the body. When a cyst reaches a certain size, it usually stops growing.

People with these cysts may have family members who also have them.

These cysts are more common in adults than in children.

Sometimes, epidermal cysts are called sebaceous cysts. This is not correct because the contents of the two types of cysts are different. Epidermal cysts are filled with dead skin cells, while true sebaceous cysts are filled with yellowish oily material. (A true sebaceous cyst is called a steatocystoma.)

Symptoms

The main symptom is usually a small, non-painful lump beneath the skin. The lump is usually found on the face, neck, and trunk. It will often have a tiny hole or pit in the center. It usually grows slowly and is not painful.

If the lump becomes infected or inflamed, other symptoms may include:

• Skin redness
• Tender or sore skin
• Warm skin in the affected area
• Grayish-white, cheesy, foul-smelling material that drains from the cyst

Exams and Tests

In most cases, the health care provider can make a diagnosis by examining your skin. Sometimes, a biopsy may be needed to rule out other conditions. If infection is suspected, you may need to have a skin culture.

Treatment

Epidermal cysts are not dangerous and do not need to be treated unless they cause symptoms or show signs of inflammation (redness or tenderness). If this occurs, your provider may suggest home care by placing a warm moist cloth (compress) over the area to help the cyst drain and heal.

A cyst may need further treatment if it becomes:

• Inflamed and swollen — the provider may inject the cyst with steroid medicine
• Swollen, tender, or large — the provider may drain the cyst or do surgery to remove it
• Infected — you may be prescribed antibiotics to take by mouth

Possible Complications

Cysts may become infected and form painful abscesses.

Cysts may return if they are not completely removed by surgery.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your provider if you notice any new growths in your body. Although cysts are not harmful, your provider should examine you for signs of skin cancer. Some skin cancers look like cystic nodules, so have any new lump examined by your provider. If you do have a cyst, call your provider if it becomes red or painful.

Dinulos JGH. Benign skin tumors. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif’s Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 20.

James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Epidermal nevi, neoplasms, and cysts. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews’ Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 29.

Patterson JW. Cysts, sinuses, and pits. In: Patterson JW, ed. Weedon’s Skin Pathology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Limited; 2021:chap 17.

Last reviewed on: 4/14/2021

Reviewed by: Elika Hoss, MD, Senior Associate Consultant, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Sebaceous Cyst: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Sebaceous Cyst: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

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Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Lydia Krause — Updated on February 7, 2023

A sebaceous cyst is typically benign. But you may choose to have a doctor remove it for cosmetic reasons.

Sebaceous cysts are common, noncancerous cysts of the skin. Cysts are atypical growths in your body that may contain liquid or semiliquid material.

Sebaceous cysts are mostly found on your face, neck, or torso. They grow slowly and aren’t life threatening, but they may become uncomfortable if they go unchecked.

Doctors usually diagnose a cyst with only a physical examination and your medical history.

In some cases, a cyst will be examined more thoroughly for signs of cancer.

Share on PinterestSebaceous Cyst at the upper back. Casa nayafana/Shutterstock

Sebaceous cysts form out of your sebaceous gland. The sebaceous gland produces the oil (called sebum) that coats your hair and skin.

Cysts can develop if the gland or its duct (the passage from which the oil is able to leave) becomes damaged or blocked. This usually occurs due to trauma to the area.

The trauma may be a scratch, a surgical wound, or a skin condition, such as acne. Sebaceous cysts grow slowly, so the trauma may have occurred weeks or months before you notice the cyst.

Other causes of a sebaceous cyst may include:

• misshapen or deformed ducts
• damage to the cells during surgery
• genetic conditions, such as Gardner’s syndrome or basal cell nevus syndrome

Small cysts are typically not painful. Large cysts can range from uncomfortable to considerably painful. Large cysts on the face and neck may cause pressure and pain.

This type of cyst is typically filled with white flakes of keratin, which is also a key element that makes up your skin and nails. Most cysts are soft to the touch.

Areas on the body where cysts are usually found include:

• scalp
• face
• neck
• back

A sebaceous cyst is considered atypical — and possibly cancerous — if it has the following characteristics:

• a diameter that’s larger than 5 centimeters
• a fast rate of reoccurrence after being removed
• signs of infection, such as redness, pain, or pus drainage

Your doctor can treat a cyst by draining it or by surgically removing it. Usually, cysts are removed. This doesn’t mean they’re dangerous — it may be for cosmetic reasons.

Since most cysts aren’t harmful to your health, your doctor will allow you to choose the treatment option that works for you.

It’s important to remember that without surgical removal, your cyst will usually come back. The best treatment to ensure complete removal is surgery. However, some people may decide against surgery because it can cause scarring.

Your doctor may use one of the following methods to remove your cyst:

• Conventional wide excision. This completely removes a cyst but can leave a long scar.
• Minimal excision. A method that causes minimal scarring but carries a risk that the cyst will return.
• Laser with punch biopsy excision. This uses a laser to make a small hole to drain the cyst of its contents (the outer walls of the cyst are removed about a month later).

After your cyst is removed, your doctor may give you an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. You should use this until the healing process is complete. You may also be given a scar cream to reduce the appearance of any surgical scars.

Doctors often diagnose a sebaceous cyst after a simple physical examination. If your cyst is atypical, your doctor may order additional tests to rule out possible cancers. You may also need these tests if you wish to have the cyst surgically removed.

Common tests used for a sebaceous cyst include:

• CT scans, which help your doctor spot atypical characteristics and find the best route for surgery
• ultrasounds, which identify the contents of the cyst
• punch biopsy, which involves removal of a small amount of tissue from the cyst to be examined in a laboratory for signs of cancer

Sebaceous cysts are generally not cancerous. Cysts left untreated can become very large and may eventually require surgical removal if they become uncomfortable.

If you have a complete surgical removal, the cyst will most likely not return in the future.

In rare cases, the removal site may become infected. Contact your doctor if your skin shows any signs of infection, such as redness and pain, or if you develop a fever. Most infections will go away with antibiotics, but some can be deadly if untreated.

Last medically reviewed on December 6, 2021

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Hoover E, et al. (2020). Physiology, sebaceous glands.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499819/
• Zito PM, et al. (2021). Epidermoid cyst.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499974/

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Feb 7, 2023

Written By

Lydia Krause

Edited By

Shannon Ullman

Copy Edited By

Helena Hoayun

Dec 6, 2021

Medically Reviewed By

Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN

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Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Lydia Krause — Updated on February 7, 2023

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Atheroma – Hadassah Medical Moscow

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Atheroma, or wen, is a small cyst of the duct of the sebaceous gland. This is a benign formation that can occur anywhere on the skin. On palpation, it is dense, does not cause any pain. The presence of a wen does not threaten health in any way.

In case of damage and infection, complications occur in the form of an abscess or phlegmon (if the capsule ruptures). That is why large atheromas should be removed. Be sure to consult a doctor for detailed advice, this will help reduce the risk of complications in the future.

Show all

Symptoms of a wen

Atheroma is a round formation under the skin that rises above its surface. The size ranges from 0.5 to 5 centimeters. Such a cyst slowly, but increases in size. Small wen do not cause discomfort, but large ones are painful on palpation. If you press on the atheroma, it easily shifts to the side. You can recognize the symptoms of fat by the following factors:

• Dense spherical formation, white or light yellow mass inside;
• The borders of the tumor are clear, but shift when pressed;
• Sebaceous duct visible;
• Intact atheroma does not cause pain;
• Can be both single and group;

Slow increase in size.

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Causes of atheroma

The mechanism of development of atheromas is as follows: the sebaceous gland secretes a secret along the duct. If there is difficulty on its way, sebum accumulates under the tissue. Because of this blockage, atheroma grows. Among the reasons why this happens, we can distinguish:

• Structural features of the sebaceous glands. Pathological changes in them occur even at the stage of embryonic development. Reason: genetic defect. Some glands do not have an excretory duct at all. In this case, atheromas appear in childhood.
• Changes in the amount and nature of sebum. If the secret becomes more viscous, the likelihood of the formation of sebaceous plugs increases. Reasons: hormonal and psychogenic changes. Because of them, the patient also develops acne, hyperhidrosis, oily seborrhea.
• Mechanical damage to the skin. Constant scarring and epithelialization of the skin leads to narrowing of the sebaceous gland duct or complete blockage. Often, atheromas appear where until recently there were wounds or abrasions, boils or drain abscesses.
• Environmental impact. If a person has been exposed to radioactive radiation or is constantly in the sun, the likelihood of wen is higher. Burns and frostbite also contribute to their appearance.

Methods for diagnosing wen

Diagnosis of wen is done by a dermatologist. He needs to distinguish atheroma from other types of benign neoplasms. Typically, patients with this symptom are referred for the following tests:

General examination

on palpation, atheroma is a cavity formation with clear boundaries, it grows slowly, a blocked lumen is clearly visible on the surface

Histological examination

the cellular composition of the neoplasm is checked, the malignant nature of the tumor is excluded

Atheroma treatments

In most cases, atheroma does not cause any discomfort. Her treatment is carried out in cases where it interferes or there is a risk of inflammation. You can remove the wen both surgically and non-surgically.

• Surgical excision. The doctor removes the cyst with a scalpel or laser, processes the tissues. The advantage of such an operation is that the likelihood of recurrence is practically absent. And the disadvantage is the formation of a small scar.
• Laser removal. A more modern method of treatment, which is carried out in 2 stages. First, the cyst is opened, cleaned of the contents. After 1-2 weeks, the walls of the neoplasm are excised with a laser.
• Radio wave removal. The cyst and all its contents are burned out by radio waves in 1 session. It is virtually painless and leaves no scars on the skin.

Atheroma prevention and treatment programs at Hadassah Clinic

It is impossible to completely protect yourself from atheroma formation. But the patient can do everything possible to minimize the risk of their occurrence. To do this, it is enough to follow the following recommendations:

• If you have oily skin, take good care of it;
• Avoid frequent junk food;
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle;
• Thoroughly cleanse the skin;
• Maintain immunity.

Seek medical attention at the first sign of wen formation. At the Hadassah clinic in Moscow, atheromas are treated only with safe and modern methods.

#GryazevaNV

Gryazeva
Natalya Vladimirovna

Dermatovenereologist, cosmetologist, Ph.D.

Work experience: 11 years

Published: 06/14/2023

The information provided on the site is for reference only and cannot serve as a basis for making a diagnosis or prescribing treatment. Internal consultation of the expert is necessary.

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Removal of callus	4000 ₽
Installation of corrective systems (titanium thread) medicines	8 000 ₽

Radio wave removal of skin neoplasms, 1 element (1 degree of complexity)	3 700 ₽
Radio wave removal of skin neoplasms, 1 element (2nd degree of complexity)	7 300 ₽
Radio wave removal of skin neoplasms, 1 element (3rd degree of complexity)	4
Treatment with the drug Botox, 100 units.	21 500 ₽

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About the disease Classification Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Expert opinion Treatment Prevention Rehabilitation

Atheroma is a benign cyst of the sebaceous gland. In the people it is often called a wen. This benign neoplasm is a fairly common problem. The risk group includes people with metabolic problems, as well as women and men 25-30 years old. Atheromas are rare in children. The most common localization of wen are areas of the body with a large accumulation of sebaceous glands.

About disease

Atheroma is formed if the excretory duct of the gland is blocked. The released secret is collected inside and stretches its walls. In the resulting cavity lined with the epidermis, in addition to sebum (sebum), skin cells, their decay products, and cholesterol crystals accumulate.

Education appears most often on the back, behind the earlobes, on the scalp. Its contents can be squeezed out through the opening of the blocked duct, but it is not recommended to do it yourself.

Types of wen

There are several types of atheromas classification. The most demanded is based on the origin of pathological formations.

• True (primary or congenital). They are formed due to congenital pathologies of the ducts of the glands. Usually represented by many small structures.
• False (secondary or acquired). They develop at any age against the background of violations of the excretion of sebum. Cysts can be large.

Depending on the histological structure, epidermal and follicular types of atheromas are distinguished, and depending on the number, single and multiple types are distinguished. education. Also, when classifying, the localization of wen is taken into account.

Symptoms of atheromas

A sebaceous cyst usually grows asymptomatically and does not cause discomfort to a person for a long time. It can be identified by external signs.

• The appearance of a slightly protruding, rounded and soft formation, soldered to the skin.
• The presence of a black dot (blocked duct) on its top.
• Slight fluctuation (oscillating movements) when touched.
• Impossibility to take the skin over the cyst into a fold due to its stretching.

As it grows, the wen may calcify and harden or become inflamed due to the addition of an infection (for example, if the skin is damaged during scratching). A number of signs indicate the beginning of the inflammatory process in atheroma:

• edema;
• increase in size;
• fever;
• the appearance of pain, aggravated by pressure.

These symptoms indicate that the wen needs to be urgently shown to a specialist. If this is not done, the festering cyst can rupture on its own, which will lead to serious consequences.

Causes of atheromas

The reasons for the appearance of a wen are different. Often several pathological mechanisms work simultaneously.

• Injuries of the skin. The growth of scar tissue leads to a violation of the patency of the duct. Usually cysts occur in places of scratching, cuts, regular traumatic removal of unwanted hair, opened and healed boils.
• Changes in sebum viscosity due to hormonal disruptions. Atheromas often occur against the background of hyperhidrosis, oily seborrhea, severe acne.
• Genetic anomalies in the structure of the skin glands: the absence of a duct or its too small size. The accumulation of the secret begins in the prenatal period, and atheromas are already visible in early childhood.

Risk factors include:

• hormonal disruptions;
• radiation exposure;
• burns and frostbite of the skin;
• increased sweating;
• non-observance of hygiene rules;
• sex hormone imbalance in adolescents;
• exposure to ultraviolet radiation;
• work in poorly ventilated, dusty areas;
• inaccurate use of antiperspirants and cosmetics, etc.

Wen diagnostics

The main task of a dermatologist is to determine the type of neoplasm on the skin, since most of the structures look the same. For this, a standard examination of the patient is carried out.

• Questioning and general examination of the patient. During it, the specialist finds out the duration of the neoplasm growth period, draws attention to the presence of a black dot on its surface and signs of irritation or inflammation.
• Palpation: when probing, the doctor reveals a skin-related cavity formation with clear boundaries.
• Complete blood count confirming the presence of an inflammatory process.

If the examination is insufficiently informative, additional studies are carried out.

• Soft tissue ultrasound. The study allows you to visualize the cavity surrounded by the capsule with liquid contents.
• Morphological diagnostics. The study is carried out after the removal of the cyst or its puncture. Allows you to clarify the histological structure of the tumor, to distinguish it from other neoplasms, including malignant ones.

Expert opinion

Wen treatment

Even uncomplicated atheromas that do not cause discomfort are subject to treatment. It is carried out to prevent inflammation of the neoplasm and other consequences. The only method that allows you to get rid of a wen is guaranteed to be surgical intervention, supplemented if necessary with complex therapy. In this case, the risk of recurrence of the cyst in the same place is minimal.

Surgeons use several techniques to remove atheromas.

• Classic cystectomy; the cyst is husked out of the capsule with a scalpel, after which cosmetic sutures are applied.
• Laser or radio wave removal. The most effective and fastest non-contact methods of surgery: the neoplasm capsule is destroyed by a laser or radio waves, and its contents are evaporated. When applying these techniques on the scalp, shaving is not required.

If the cyst is inflamed, a course of anti-inflammatory therapy is given before the intervention.

Wen Prevention

The main method to reduce the risk of developing wen is measures aimed at stabilizing the work of the sebaceous glands. To prevent atheroma, you need to:

• reduce the content of animal fats and simple carbohydrates in the diet, enriching it with fruits and vegetables;
• regularly carry out preventive receptions of vitamin complexes;
• treat inflammatory diseases in a timely manner;
• observe the rules of personal hygiene;
• harden the body.

Rehabilitation

The operation is performed on an outpatient basis, i.e. without hospitalization. The patient visits the clinic only on the day of the intervention. The rehabilitation period lasts 7-10 days. At this time, you need to follow a few rules.