Sebaceous cyst on chest: Sebaceous Cysts – Harvard Health
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
VIEW ALL HISTORY
Share this article
Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Lydia Krause — Updated on February 7, 2023
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- Answers About the Cyst on Your Forehead
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- Epidermoid Cysts
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Epidermoid cysts, also called sebaceous, keratin, or epithelial cysts, are small, hard lumps that develop under the skin.
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If it’s a cyst…
Sebaceous Cyst: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Sebaceous Cyst: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
- Health Conditions
- Featured
- Breast Cancer
- IBD
- Migraine
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Articles
- Acid Reflux
- ADHD
- Allergies
- Alzheimer’s & Dementia
- Bipolar Disorder
- Cancer
- Crohn’s Disease
- Chronic Pain
- Cold & Flu
- COPD
- Depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Heart Disease
- High Cholesterol
- HIV
- Hypertension
- IPF
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriasis
- Skin Disorders and Care
- STDs
- Featured
- Discover
- Wellness Topics
- Nutrition
- Fitness
- Skin Care
- Sexual Health
- Women’s Health
- Mental Well-Being
- Sleep
- Product Reviews
- Vitamins & Supplements
- Sleep
- Mental Health
- Nutrition
- At-Home Testing
- CBD
- Men’s Health
- Original Series
- Fresh Food Fast
- Diagnosis Diaries
- You’re Not Alone
- Present Tense
- Video Series
- Youth in Focus
- Healthy Harvest
- No More Silence
- Future of Health
- Wellness Topics
- Plan
- Health Challenges
- Mindful Eating
- Sugar Savvy
- Move Your Body
- Gut Health
- Mood Foods
- Align Your Spine
- Find Care
- Primary Care
- Mental Health
- OB-GYN
- Dermatologists
- Neurologists
- Cardiologists
- Orthopedists
- Lifestyle Quizzes
- Weight Management
- Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
- Are You a Workaholic?
- How Well Do You Sleep?
- Tools & Resources
- Health News
- Find a Diet
- Find Healthy Snacks
- Drugs A-Z
- Health A-Z
- Health Challenges
- Connect
- Breast Cancer
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Migraine
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Psoriasis
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
VIEW ALL HISTORY
Share this article
Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Lydia Krause — Updated on February 7, 2023
Read this next
- Answers About the Cyst on Your Forehead
Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP
Do you have a cyst on your forehead? Are you sure it’s not a lipoma? Learn how to tell the difference and what to do about either one.
If it’s a cyst…READ MORE
- Epidermoid Cysts
Medically reviewed by Owen Kramer, MD
Epidermoid cysts, also called sebaceous, keratin, or epithelial cysts, are small, hard lumps that develop under the skin.
READ MORE
- Earlobe Cyst
Medically reviewed by Avi Varma, MD, MPH, AAHIVS, FAAFP
It’s common to develop painful bumps, called cysts, on and around your earlobes. Cysts can look like pimples, but they’re different. Read on to learn…
READ MORE
- Perineural Cysts
Medically reviewed by William Morrison, M.D.
Perineural cysts, also known as Tarlov cysts, are fluid-filled sacs that form on nerves at the base of spine.
READ MORE
- What’s Causing This Cyst?
Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD
A cyst is a sac-like pocket of tissue containing fluid or other substances. It can grow almost anywhere in the body or under skin. Discover 14 types…
READ MORE
- Skin Lesion Biopsy
Medically reviewed by Laura Marusinec, MD
A skin lesion biopsy is a simple medical procedure in which a sample of your skin is removed and tested in a laboratory.
READ MORE
- Hard Pimples: Causes, Treatment, and More
Medically reviewed by Katie Mena, MD
Chances are you’ve experience a pimple or acne here and there. Knowing the type of pimple you have can be important for treating it. We explain what a…
READ MORE
- Milium Cysts in Adults and Babies
Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP
A milium cyst is a small, white bump that typically appears on the nose and cheeks. Multiple cysts are referred to as milia. Milia is most common in…
READ MORE
- What’s Causing This Skin Lesion?
A skin lesion is a part of the skin that has an abnormal appearance compared to the skin around it. Discover 21 types of skin lesions, like acne and…
READ MORE
- Healing Cystic Acne From the Inside Out
Most acne treatment is an after-thought, so what happens when you treat acne from the inside out? Read how this woman changed her life (and skin) by…
READ MORE
If it’s a cyst…
Breast cyst: causes, symptoms, treatment
The disease initially proceeds almost asymptomatically.
After some time, unpleasant sensations appear – burning, itching, slight pain and seals in the structure of the chest. Symptoms are aggravated by menstruation.
Breast cyst most often occurs with hormonal disorders in women. The disease most often occurs in women aged 35 to 50 years (before menopause), but can occur at any age.
There is a small chance of malignancy of the cystic formation.
What is a breast cyst
A cavity bounded by a capsule and filled with liquid contents is called a cyst. If these pathological structures are located in the tissues of the mammary glands – these are cysts of the mammary glands .
Such a capsule is formed due to the expansion of the lactiferous duct of the gland, which is stretched and gradually filled with fluid. The duct then closes and forms a capsule. At first, there is no discomfort, and in the early stages the disease goes unnoticed.
As the cyst grows, unpleasant and painful sensations appear.
The contents of the cyst may become inflamed, making the pain intense. Before and during menstruation, discomfort intensifies and can become quite painful. The neoplasm can be round, oval or more complex in shape. Its size ranges from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Large cystic formations can change the breast to a visually noticeable deformation.
Education can be single or multiple (group).
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Causes of breast cysts
Usually the cause of the cyst is neglected mastopathy and serious endocrine disorders. The main factors causing the disease are:
- a strong deviation from the norm of the hormonal background of a woman, an excess of estrogens;
- frequent exposure to stress;
- heredity;
- pregnancy and childbirth;
- not breastfeeding;
- breastfeeding a child for more than a year;
- physical damage (injury) of the chest;
- exceeding the duration of the use of hormonal contraceptives or not observing the required pauses when taking them;
- abortions, especially numerous;
- surgical interventions on the chest;
- excessive exposure to the sun and an overdose of ultraviolet rays in solariums;
- late pregnancies;
- childlessness;
- use of “interrupted intercourse” as a means of contraception;
- overweight (obesity) or breast hypertrophy;
- malnutrition, violation of fat metabolism, leading to hormonal disruptions;
- intoxication of the body in hazardous industries;
- bad habits: smoking, alcohol abuse or unnatural foods.
Also, pathology can accompany a number of the following diseases:
- diabetes mellitus;
- liver disease, biliary disorders;
- thyroid dysfunction;
- ovarian diseases leading to hormonal disorders;
- infections of the genitourinary system;
- diseases of the thoracic spine, thoracic scoliosis.
The causes of pathology are really diverse. If risk factors are present, it is necessary to monitor the condition of your mammary glands. It is desirable to exclude from life the causes of the appearance of this disease. Many of them are eliminated quite easily – for example, bad habits and malnutrition, leading to obesity.
Classification of cystic masses
Get expert advice:
- Mammologist
By location and structure, cysts are classified into the following types:
The structure of education is divided into 2 forms:
- Plain . Consists of a smooth vesicular cystic capsule with fluid contents , originates from ducts in the mammary glands . Its structure is soft and elastic, this form can go unnoticed for a long time.
- Atypical. Hollow capsule from the walls of which calcified outgrowths “grow” into the cavity. This type of cyst quickly becomes inflamed, has a rigid structure and causes discomfort.
Consists of a smooth vesicular cystic capsule with fluid contents , originates from ducts in the mammary glands . Its structure is soft and elastic, this form can go unnoticed for a long time.By size can be divided into 2 groups:
- Microcysts. The size is a few millimeters. Cannot be detected by palpation.
- Macrocysts. The size exceeds 1 cm (10 mm) and can reach up to 5 cm (50 mm). Easily detected by probing even with self-diagnosis.
By the number of units of cyst formation, it happens:
- Solitary. Solitary formation, usually large. When reaching sizes of more than 10 mm, it can cause pain.
- Multiple . Consists of several small capsules located nearby. It is usually well palpable, as it occupies a large volume.
- Multi-chamber. Occurs with polycystosis, when a group of adjacent formations unites into one.
Consists of several small capsules located nearby. It is usually well palpable, as it occupies a large volume.By location in tissues:
- Flow through. Formed by hollow outgrowths in the lactiferous ducts of the gland. Occurs during menopause in women 40-50 years old.
- Fat. Formed in the body of the gland due to blockage of the sebaceous duct.
After classifying the cyst, the doctor determines the most appropriate treatment.
Breast cyst symptoms
At the initial stage of development, this benign neoplasm may not manifest itself at all, and is diagnosed by chance on ultrasound. With its further development, the following symptoms may appear:
- mammary glands become painful when touched, the symptom is especially pronounced during menstruation;
- on palpation, you can feel a smooth formation that moves in the body of the gland;
- roughness of the skin of the nipples;
- discharge from the nipples of a white, yellow liquid or pus;
- a significant increase in breast size before menstruation and a strong decrease after it;
- deformation of the organ, with large formations, the change in the shape of the breast is noticeable visually;
- enlarged axillary lymph nodes and pain in the axillary region;
- pain when squeezing the chest;
- pain, burning or itching can be observed without mechanical action on the chest;
- with an inflamed cyst, an increase in temperature is possible.
If a woman discovers something similar in herself, she should urgently consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Breast cyst diagnostics
All studies of the mammary glands are best done at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. At this time, female hormones are at a minimum, so there is no too sharp pain, as before and during menstruation.
There are many methods for diagnosing the condition of the mammary glands:
- Self-diagnosis. A woman independently feels her mammary glands and determines the presence of places with pain when you press them. Also reveals shaped hard or painful breast structures. Feeling should be gentle so as not to damage the delicate structure of the mammary gland. This type of self-examination is desirable to conduct regularly, at least once a month. If there are painful sensations or formed structures, you should immediately consult a doctor. If nothing is found, you should still check the condition of the mammary glands with a specialist at least once a year. Small cysts cannot be found by palpation.
- Medical examination of the breast helps to determine the presence of neoplasms. Unfortunately, the method does not make it possible to determine the type of education. The detection of any solid structures in the gland requires more accurate examinations using modern equipment.
- Mammography. X-ray examination of the chest. Determines the shape, size, localization and type of pathological structures of the gland. It is recommended that all women over 45 have a mammogram once a year. This method helps to identify in the early stages many diseases that have not yet manifested themselves as symptoms. Regular mammograms are called screenings. If suspicious structures are identified, a second examination may be prescribed – this is a diagnostic mammogram. It is done for a more detailed and scrupulous examination.
- Ultrasound examination (ultrasound). Allows you to determine the shape, size, structure and internal structure of all neoplasms, including cysts. Usually, ultrasound also determines the elasticity of tissues (elastography). When examining a cyst, it is considered one of the best methods. It has a high diagnostic accuracy and makes it possible to examine the internal structure of the cyst body.
- Magnetic resonance imaging. Shows the structure of the cyst and parietal tissues. It is prescribed if mammography was not enough for a more complete study of the structure of the gland and its pathologies.
- Fine-needle aspiration (puncture) of the contents of the cyst. Using an ultrasound machine, the doctor pierces the cyst with a thin needle and extracts fluid from it, which will be sent for additional research. This method is also used to treat cysts by extracting fluid from the formation cavity.
- Cytological analysis. Biological material is taken from the formation, obtained by fine-needle puncture from the cyst, then examined by microscopic cytological methods.
- Study of hormonal balance. It is necessary to identify the causes of the disease.
Small cysts cannot be found by palpation.
Usually, ultrasound also determines the elasticity of tissues (elastography). When examining a cyst, it is considered one of the best methods. It has a high diagnostic accuracy and makes it possible to examine the internal structure of the cyst body.
When visiting a mammologist for diagnostic purposes, it is necessary to tell in detail:
- what symptoms are observed and for how long;
- what preparations, including contraceptives and vitamins, are used;
- whether there are reasons for stress;
- whether the menstrual cycle is regular;
- whether the cyst was found earlier.
Complications of breast cyst
Pathogenic microorganisms can get into the cyst cavity, filled with liquid, , which often leads to inflammation. This is a very common complication.
Without treatment, an inflamed cyst can turn into an abscess. This can lead to rupture of the cyst and infection of the body. The consequences of such complications are very serious, up to sepsis.
It is possible that the cyst will transform from a benign neoplasm to a malignant one. Although the probability is small, it should not be neglected.
There is another danger – a large number of cystic formations can interfere with the detection of malignant tumors, if any.
Breast cyst treatment
There is a false opinion – “it does not hurt, so it is not necessary to treat.” Or “it will resolve itself.” However, cases of self-healing are so rare that you should not rely on them. You should also forget about the complications described above. Therefore, when a cyst is detected, treatment should be started immediately.
With a small size of the cyst and the absence of inflammation, conservative methods of treatment can be limited.
These methods include:
- Medication. A number of drugs are used to eliminate the underlying causes of the disease. Hormonal drugs eliminate the imbalance of the endocrine system. Fortifying and vitamin complexes fix the result. With the background presence of stress, sedatives are used.
- Aspiration. With the help of a thin needle, liquid is drawn out of the cavity. The cavity can be filled with a therapeutic composition, this is one of the methods of treatment.
The cavity can be filled with a therapeutic composition, this is one of the methods of treatment.If the disease does not respond to conservative methods of treatment, has progressed into dangerous forms or complications have arisen, surgical methods are used:
- Laparoscopic surgery. Minimally invasive intervention using a laparoscope, which makes a puncture in the mammary glands. It is used if the size of the cyst is small.
- Surgical removal of the mass. It is done with a tissue incision. It is used if the size of the neoplasm is large. During the operation, the portion of the gland affected by the cyst can be removed.
- Surgical removal of the mammary gland. It is used if almost the entire gland is affected by polycystic disease. After that, reconstructive breast surgery is performed.
Since the operated organ is outside, the operation is not difficult. Does not require a long recovery period after it. Modern surgical technique presents an opportunity to minimize postoperative scarring.
After the punctures and incisions have healed, they become little or not noticeable at all.
The following treatment methods should be added here, used in conjunction with conservative and surgical methods:
- Diet therapy. It will help to get rid of the risk of re-formation of the cyst. Normalizing nutrition eliminates the risk of obesity and estrogen hypersecretion.
- Physical education. Moderate physical activity will restore metabolism. This greatly reduces the risk of relapse.
- Psychotherapy. If there is constant stress in a woman’s life, there is a possibility of a return of the disease. It is necessary to eliminate stress and restore the psycho-emotional state of the patient.
By diagnosing problems in the early stages, surgery can be avoided. Compliance with simple rules of prevention will prevent the recurrence of the disease.
Breast cyst prophylaxis
In fact, the prevention of breast cysts can be described in one phrase – a healthy lifestyle.
Here are some simple recommendations, following which you can avoid this unpleasant disease or its recurrence:
- avoid stress;
- have a good rest;
- wear a quality bra that gently supports your breasts;
- eat healthy food, avoid obesity;
- keep physically active, exercise;
- do not smoke;
- do not abuse alcohol;
- have sex with a regular partner;
- correctly use hormonal contraception;
- realize your childbearing function;
- avoid abortion;
- do not abuse sunbathing, solariums;
- treat gynecological diseases in time;
- regularly visit a gynecologist and mammologist, especially after 45 years.
Follow these rules and your breasts will be healthy!
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Breast cyst – diagnosis and surgical removal of a cyst in the breast in a clinic in St. Petersburg
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A breast cyst is a capsule filled with liquid content that forms in the breast ducts.
The fluid is non-inflammatory. Usually the disease begins against the background of other diseases, such as fibrocystic mastopathy. A benign neoplasm can appear in one gland (unilateral pathology) or in both at once (bilateral). There are both single foci and multiple, spreading throughout the organ. At risk are women from 30 to 55 years old, especially those who do not have children.
Types and characteristics of neoplasms Signs of breast cysts Causes Diagnosis Methods of surgical treatment Laser treatment (vaporization) Possible complications Prevention
A woman can feel a neoplasm during breast palpation during self-examination. It will be oval, round or irregular in shape. The size can reach 5 cm in difficult cases. The usual formation has even walls, the atypical one has growth cavities directed inside.
Multiple cysts of varying sizes are called “polycystic”. Over time, they unite into multi-chamber conglomerates. Modified cystic tissue can occupy more than half of the breast.
This disease is not a threat to life, but can reduce its quality. It rarely degenerates into oncology, but its nodal forms can become a trigger for the development of cancer.
Varieties of neoplasms
Breast cysts are atypical, fibrous, fatty, solitary, multi-chamber, ductal, developing against the background of diffuse mastopathy – consider their features and signs.
Atypical
Grow inside the cavity due to the absence of walls in them, form in the dilated duct, may become inflamed, prone to relapse. In the cavity there may be papillomatous neoplasms – both benign and malignant.
Fibrous
Their distinguishing feature is the proliferation of connective (fibrous) tissue, leading to the formation of cavities that accumulate fluid. Over time, this fluid comes out of the nipples. These neoplasms create the background for the onset of cancer.
Fatty
The reason for the appearance is blockage of the sebaceous gland in the skin and overflowing with secret (milk).
A benign formation has smooth walls, appears during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Solitary
May contain liquid of different colors, are benign. Formed only in one breast, reminiscent of a dense capsule.
Multichamber
Small cysts of the mammary gland, eventually uniting into one.
Ductal
Appear after 50 years of age, are of a benign nature, but in medicine they are referred to as a precancerous condition.
Against the background of diffuse mastopathy
Diffuse mastopathy is characterized by a change in the structure of the breast tissue, in which the correct ratio of connective tissue and epithelial structures is disturbed. With diffuse changes in tissues, connective tissue structures grow unevenly, forming strands and nodules. This leads to the fact that the structure of the breast lobules and its ducts is disturbed, very small cysts appear. Under certain conditions, this form of the disease can develop into nodular mastopathy, which is a risk factor for cancer.
Breast cyst symptoms
A small neoplasm does not cause discomfort, complaints in patients appear only when it increases in size and can be felt by hand. The symptoms are as follows:
- heaviness in the chest, burning;
- discharge of fluid from the nipples;
- headache, nervousness;
- discomfort in the lower abdomen;
- increased chest pain in the second phase of menstruation;
- breast reshaping.
When a tumor becomes inflamed, the following symptoms appear:
- severe pain at the location of the tumor;
- local swelling;
- reddening of the skin at the site of the focus of the disease;
- general weakness, drowsiness, decreased performance;
- fever.
It should also be noted that the disease has taken a malignant form, that is, cancer is developing:
- at the location of the outbreak, the skin hardens and retracts inward, a “lemon peel” may form;
- the mammary gland is deformed;
- nipples redden, fluid comes out of them;
- nipple can be retracted;
- the node is very clearly palpable on palpation;
- The chest is clearly asymmetrical.
Causes of disease
There are a lot of factors influencing the appearance of neoplasms in the breast, we list the main ones:
- pregnancy;
- hormonal imbalance;
- injuries in this area;
- long course of hormonal contraceptives;
- tanning without a swimsuit;
- surgical interventions on the chest;
- abortions;
- sudden weight gain;
- diabetes;
- mastitis;
- thyroid problems;
- severe and frequent stress;
- inflammatory diseases of the genital organs;
- degenerative processes in the thoracic spine;
- malnutrition.
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Diagnostics
The diagnosis is made by a mammologist. All complaints of a woman, an assessment of her medical history and examination data of the mammary glands are important for making a diagnosis.
It is necessary to accurately describe all the symptoms that have arisen, their duration and intensity. The doctor performs probing of the mammary gland, carefully studying the affected area. Manually, formations larger than 1 cm can be detected, but the nature of the formation can be confirmed by instrumental diagnostics.
Cystic masses can be confirmed by ultrasonography and fine-needle biopsy with aspiration of the contents. Ultrasound can also determine whether there are dense areas in the cyst area, which may be signs of precancerous or oncological formations.
Cytological examination of the contents of the cyst is carried out after sampling. Determine the presence of cells, including atypical, blood impurities and other components.
Mammography is also indicated. She can detect any seals in the chest and help in their localization, clarifying the size of the character.
Surgical techniques
An operation is needed when the breast cyst is growing rapidly, its contents become infected.
The classic technique is sectoral resection, in which the fibrous membrane itself and part of the surrounding tissues are cut out. In general, the technique of intervention depends on the localization of the neoplasm, its type, quantity and cause of occurrence. Indications for surgery:
- no effect of conservative treatment;
- multilocular tumors;
- frequent relapses;
- inflammation of the contents of the capsule;
- neoplasms over 1.5 cm;
Modern techniques include sclerotherapy, in which first a puncture of the mammary gland is made to pump out the contents of the cyst, and then a special preparation for sclerotherapy is injected into the remaining capsule. As a result, the walls of the neoplasm stick together, the fluid no longer accumulates. The pumped out contents are sent to a laboratory study to rule out oncology.
Also in the SM-Clinic there is an opportunity for the treatment of breast cysts with laser techniques.
Laser treatment is effective both for single cysts and for fibroadenoma.
Breast cyst can be treated laparoscopically. This is a low-invasive intervention in which both the contents of the capsule and the capsule itself are removed.
Another method is laser resection. The cystic neoplasm is destroyed by a directed laser beam. This is also a minimally invasive technique, which minimizes the risk of complications, blood loss and infection of the wound.
You can see the cost of breast cyst removal on our website in the price list, as well as the prices for preoperative tests.
Laser removal of a breast cyst consists in puncturing the formation under ultrasound control, passing a laser guide through the puncture needle directly into the neoplasm and evaporating the cyst tissues with high temperatures.
Laser treatment is effective both with a single formation and with the appearance of fibroadenoma.
- The whole operation is carried out in 1 day and is of a low-traumatic nature
- No structural tissue deformation after surgery
- Treatment is performed under local anesthesia
- Access to the cyst is through a micro-puncture
- Hospitalization not required
Possible complications
If left untreated, cystic masses may be stable for many years, prone to spontaneous regression.
Most of the formations are benign and do not require treatment or subsequent invasive diagnostics. Some types of cysts may need to be removed with testing to rule out breast cancer.
Prophylaxis
Specific prophylaxis of breast cysts has not been developed. You can prevent the formation of a cyst by undergoing regular examinations, self-examination. To reduce the risk of cystic formations, wearing a comfortable bra, avoiding excessive caffeine intake, reducing salt intake, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are shown.
Surgeon’s consultation on surgery (ACTION)* | 0 | – |
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Laser destruction of breast cyst | 25500 | – |
* You can find out more about the conditions here – Treatment on credit or installments
Preliminary cost. The exact cost of the operation can only be determined by the surgeon during a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
If a breast cyst is small, it does not show itself outwardly, the breast does not change shape or size. Large cysts, as well as multiple or multi-chamber when they reach a significant size, can lead to an increase in the volume of the mammary gland, its deformation. Microcysts (up to 1 cm) are difficult to detect even on palpation, macrocysts (from 1 to 5 cm) are determined by touch as rounded, mobile formations.
On its own, with visual examination and palpation, it is impossible to distinguish a breast cyst from a malignant or benign formation. An accurate diagnosis is made by the doctor during additional instrumental and laboratory studies – ultrasound, mammography, cytological examination of the fluid obtained by puncturing the cyst. You should not waste time and try to make a diagnosis yourself, this can lead to health-threatening consequences.
Fibroadenomas often occur at a young age, their appearance and growth are more dependent on hormonal changes in the female body.
Cysts, in most cases, develop after 35 years, in the premenopausal period. Fibroadenoma very rarely causes pain, cysts, especially large ones, are accompanied by pain. On palpation, the fibroadenoma is felt as a dense formation, while the cyst is softer, more mobile. All these are indirect signs, only a doctor can make a differential diagnosis and make a final diagnosis, based on an examination, additional examinations and tests.
Small breast cysts may develop asymptomatically or have mild symptoms such as tenderness, breast enlargement before menstruation. With the growth of education, pain intensifies, while maintaining a cyclical nature – they decrease in the first half of the cycle, increase in the second, immediately before menstruation. There may be pain that is not associated with the cycle, burning, itching, tingling in the chest.
The risk of malignancy – malignant degeneration of a breast cyst – is low, from 1 to 3%. However, the cyst may have other complications.
When pathogenic bacteria enter its cavity, an inflammatory process begins, which, without treatment, can result in abscess formation or diffuse purulent inflammation. In both cases, surgical treatment is indicated. Large cysts, in addition to pain, can lead to a change in the shape of the breast, and the accumulation of small ones can make it difficult to diagnose other formations in the breast.
Specialists in this field 1 doctor
Leading doctors 1 doctor
Anatoly Viktorovich Pfanenshtil
Surgeon, mammologist and oncologist. Doctor of the highest category.
Work experience: 15 years
Dunaysky, 47
Dunayskaya metro station
Malaya Balkanskaya, 23
Kupchino metro station
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