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WHAT IS AN EPIDERMOID CYST?

Epidermoid cysts are small, hard lumps that develop beneath the skin.

They do not cause other symptoms and are very rarely cancerous.

Epidermoid cysts are often found on the face, head, neck, back and genitals.

They range from 0.25-to-2 inches across and look like small bumps with a tan, yellow colour.

Such cysts are filled with thick, smelly matter.

Epidermoid cysts are usually caused by a build up of the protein keratin, which occurs naturally in skin cells.

Cysts develop when this protein is trapped due to skin or hair follicle disruption, which may occur as a result of infections, acne or excessive sun exposure.

Most epidermoid cysts heal without intervention.

Treatment may be required if the cyst is red, swollen, painful, infected or changes in size.

Such cysts may require antibiotics and drainage. Surgical removal may be necessary in some cases.

Squeezing cysts can lead to infection and should therefore be avoided.

There is also the possibility that they may grow back.

Source: Healthline 

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