Cysts
I. Definition:
A cyst is a harmless sac-like growth in the deeper layers of the skin, which is filled with a soft, whitish brown material that sometimes oozes onto the skin surface.
II. Causes:
· People who smoke are more prone to the development of large cysts. Cysts are also more likely to become infected in smokers.
· We do not know why cysts appear, nor do we know why some persons get many of them. Often we are born with cysts under the skin.
· Sometimes, people who have multiple cysts have a family history of this problem.
· As a person gets older, sometimes a cyst which was present since birth suddenly gets larger. When this happens, bacteria often get into the cyst and an infection occurs which can resemble a boil.
III. Treatment:
· Small cysts generally do not need treatment, however larger cysts are usually removed because of their size.
· If a cyst becomes infected, an antibiotic taken by mouth and minor surgery done in the office may be needed to relieve the pressure and discomfort. This is done by making a small opening into the skin and draining the cyst. Cysts often recur after this type of surgery because the sac or wall is left behind.
· To remove a cyst completely, it has to be excised (cut out) in order to remove the sac or cyst wall. A local anesthetic is used to numb the skin. Stitches are used to close the skin opening and are removed 7-14 days after the surgery.
· Excision will usually cure a cyst, however, sometimes a cyst will come back and require a second surgery.
A cyst is a harmless sac-like growth in the deeper layers of the skin, which is filled with a soft, whitish brown material that sometimes oozes onto the skin surface.
II. Causes:
· People who smoke are more prone to the development of large cysts. Cysts are also more likely to become infected in smokers.
· We do not know why cysts appear, nor do we know why some persons get many of them. Often we are born with cysts under the skin.
· Sometimes, people who have multiple cysts have a family history of this problem.
· As a person gets older, sometimes a cyst which was present since birth suddenly gets larger. When this happens, bacteria often get into the cyst and an infection occurs which can resemble a boil.
III. Treatment:
· Small cysts generally do not need treatment, however larger cysts are usually removed because of their size.
· If a cyst becomes infected, an antibiotic taken by mouth and minor surgery done in the office may be needed to relieve the pressure and discomfort. This is done by making a small opening into the skin and draining the cyst. Cysts often recur after this type of surgery because the sac or wall is left behind.
· To remove a cyst completely, it has to be excised (cut out) in order to remove the sac or cyst wall. A local anesthetic is used to numb the skin. Stitches are used to close the skin opening and are removed 7-14 days after the surgery.
· Excision will usually cure a cyst, however, sometimes a cyst will come back and require a second surgery.