Sebaceous Cysts on Back of Neck: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

13.08.202112.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are sebaceous cysts and where do they commonly occur. How are sebaceous cysts diagnosed and what treatment options are available. Are sebaceous cysts dangerous or cancerous. What causes sebaceous cysts to form on the back of the neck.

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Understanding Sebaceous Cysts: What They Are and Where They Occur

Sebaceous cysts are common, noncancerous growths that develop beneath the skin. These cysts form when a sebaceous gland or its duct becomes damaged or blocked, leading to the accumulation of sebum (oil) and other materials. While they can appear anywhere on the body, sebaceous cysts are most frequently found on the face, neck, torso, and scalp.

Why do sebaceous cysts often form on the back of the neck? This area has a high concentration of sebaceous glands and is prone to friction and irritation from clothing, which can contribute to cyst formation. Additionally, the skin on the back of the neck is relatively thick, providing an ideal environment for cysts to develop and grow.

Key Characteristics of Sebaceous Cysts

Typically slow-growing
Usually painless, unless they become large or infected
Filled with white, flaky keratin material
Soft to the touch
Can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters

Causes and Risk Factors for Sebaceous Cyst Formation

Understanding the underlying causes of sebaceous cysts can help in prevention and early detection. What factors contribute to the development of these cysts? Several conditions and circumstances can lead to sebaceous cyst formation:

Trauma to the skin (e.g., scratches, cuts, or surgical wounds)
Skin conditions like acne
Blocked or damaged sebaceous gland ducts
Genetic predisposition (e.g., Gardner’s syndrome or basal cell nevus syndrome)
Hormonal imbalances
Excessive sun exposure

Is there a way to prevent sebaceous cysts from forming? While not all cases can be prevented, maintaining good skin hygiene, avoiding picking at or irritating the skin, and protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure may help reduce the risk of cyst formation.

Diagnosis of Sebaceous Cysts: What to Expect

How do healthcare providers diagnose sebaceous cysts? In most cases, a sebaceous cyst can be diagnosed through a simple physical examination. During this examination, your doctor will assess the size, location, and characteristics of the cyst. They may also inquire about your medical history and any symptoms you’re experiencing.

When might additional tests be necessary for diagnosing a sebaceous cyst? If the cyst displays atypical features or if your doctor suspects it may be cancerous, they may recommend further testing. These additional diagnostic procedures may include:

Ultrasound imaging to visualize the cyst’s internal structure
CT scan or MRI for more detailed imaging
Biopsy to examine the cyst’s contents under a microscope

Treatment Options for Sebaceous Cysts: From Conservative Approaches to Surgical Removal

What are the available treatment options for sebaceous cysts? The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the size and location of the cyst, whether it’s causing discomfort, and patient preferences. Here are some common approaches:

1. Watchful Waiting

For small, asymptomatic cysts, your doctor may recommend monitoring the cyst over time. This approach is suitable if the cyst isn’t causing any problems and you’re comfortable with its appearance.

2. Warm Compresses

Applying warm compresses to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and promote drainage of the cyst. This method may provide temporary relief but doesn’t address the underlying cause.

3. Corticosteroid Injections

In some cases, a doctor may inject a corticosteroid medication into the cyst to reduce inflammation and shrink its size. This treatment can be effective for temporary relief but doesn’t remove the cyst entirely.

4. Incision and Drainage

This procedure involves making a small cut in the cyst and draining its contents. While it can provide immediate relief, the cyst is likely to recur as the sac remains in place.

5. Surgical Excision

Complete surgical removal of the cyst and its sac is the most effective treatment to prevent recurrence. There are several surgical techniques available:

Conventional wide excision: This method removes the entire cyst but may leave a longer scar.
Minimal excision: This technique aims to minimize scarring but carries a higher risk of cyst recurrence.
Laser with punch biopsy excision: This two-step process uses a laser to drain the cyst initially, followed by removal of the cyst wall about a month later.

Potential Complications and When to Seek Medical Attention

While sebaceous cysts are generally benign, they can sometimes lead to complications. What are the signs that a sebaceous cyst requires immediate medical attention? Be alert for the following symptoms:

Rapid growth or sudden increase in size
Severe pain or tenderness
Redness, warmth, or swelling around the cyst
Discharge of pus or foul-smelling material
Fever or other signs of infection

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Infected cysts may require antibiotics or immediate drainage to prevent the spread of infection.

Living with Sebaceous Cysts: Management and Self-Care Tips

How can you manage sebaceous cysts and minimize their impact on your daily life? While medical treatment may be necessary in some cases, there are several self-care strategies you can employ:

Keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection
Avoid picking, squeezing, or attempting to pop the cyst
Use gentle, non-irritating skincare products
Protect the area from friction and irritation
Apply warm compresses to relieve discomfort
Consider using over-the-counter pain relievers if the cyst is causing pain

Can dietary changes or supplements help prevent or manage sebaceous cysts? While there’s limited scientific evidence supporting specific dietary interventions for sebaceous cysts, maintaining overall skin health through a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E may be beneficial. Some people find that reducing their intake of dairy products or foods high in saturated fats helps improve their skin condition, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Sebaceous Cysts vs. Other Skin Growths: Differential Diagnosis

How can you differentiate sebaceous cysts from other similar skin growths? While a definitive diagnosis should always be made by a healthcare professional, there are some key characteristics that can help distinguish sebaceous cysts from other conditions:

Sebaceous Cysts vs. Epidermoid Cysts

Epidermoid cysts are often confused with sebaceous cysts due to their similar appearance. However, epidermoid cysts originate from the epidermis rather than sebaceous glands. They tend to have a small, visible pore on the surface and may have a cheese-like odor when drained.

Sebaceous Cysts vs. Lipomas

Lipomas are benign fatty tumors that develop in the layer of fat beneath the skin. Unlike sebaceous cysts, lipomas are typically soft and doughy to the touch and can be moved easily with finger pressure.

Sebaceous Cysts vs. Boils

Boils are painful, pus-filled bumps that result from bacterial infections of hair follicles. They tend to develop more rapidly than sebaceous cysts and are usually accompanied by redness, warmth, and tenderness.

Why is accurate diagnosis important? Proper identification of skin growths ensures appropriate treatment and helps rule out more serious conditions, such as skin cancer.

Future Perspectives: Advancements in Sebaceous Cyst Treatment

What new treatments or techniques are being developed for managing sebaceous cysts? While current treatments are generally effective, ongoing research aims to improve outcomes and reduce recurrence rates. Some promising areas of investigation include:

Minimally invasive removal techniques: Researchers are exploring new methods to remove cysts with minimal scarring and faster recovery times.
Targeted therapies: Studies are underway to develop medications that can specifically target and shrink sebaceous cysts without surgery.
Genetic therapies: As our understanding of the genetic factors contributing to cyst formation improves, gene-targeted treatments may become possible in the future.
Improved imaging technologies: Advanced imaging techniques may allow for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, especially for atypical or deep-seated cysts.

How might these advancements change the landscape of sebaceous cyst treatment in the coming years? As research progresses, we may see a shift towards more personalized treatment approaches, with options tailored to individual patients based on factors such as cyst characteristics, genetic profile, and personal preferences. This could lead to improved outcomes, reduced recurrence rates, and enhanced patient satisfaction.

In conclusion, sebaceous cysts on the back of the neck and other areas of the body are common, benign growths that can be effectively managed through various treatment options. While they rarely pose serious health risks, proper diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate discomfort and address cosmetic concerns. As our understanding of these cysts continues to evolve, we can look forward to even more effective and patient-friendly treatment options in the future.

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

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
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
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
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.