Sebaceous cysts and lipomas are common benign skin growths that can occur in various parts of the body. While they are typically non-cancerous and harmless, they can be troublesome and cosmetic concerns.
Introduction to Sebaceous Cysts and Lipomas
Sebaceous Cysts
Description and Appearance
Sebaceous cysts are small, closed sacs filled with a white, cheesy substance called sebum. They are present in the skin to lubricate and feed the hair follicles. In some people who are genetically predisposed to these the pathway to the hair follicle can become blocked and the sac expands. They often appear as:
Round or oval bumps under the skin.
Flesh-colored or yellowish in appearance.
Ranging in size from a pea to a marble.
Common Locations
Sebaceous cysts can develop in areas with many oil glands, such as:
Back
Scalp
Face
Genitalia
Symptoms and Signs
Sebaceous cysts are typically painless and slow-growing, but they may become inflamed or infected, leading to:
Redness
Swelling
Pain or tenderness
Discharge of thick, foul-smelling material
Treatment Options
Treatment for sebaceous cysts may include:
Incision and drainage
Complete surgical removal (excision)
Antibiotics for infected cysts even if the plan is to excise them as infected tissue heals poorly post operatively.
Avoiding squeezing or popping the cyst, as this can lead to infection.
Lipomas
Description and Appearance
Lipomas are soft, rubbery growths under the skin composed of fat cells. They often appear as:
Dome-shaped or flattened lumps.
Colorless or yellowish.
Easily movable under the skin.
Common Locations
Lipomas can develop in various areas, including:
Neck
Back
Arms and Forearms
Thighs
Symptoms and Signs
Lipomas are typically painless and slow-growing. However, they can cause discomfort or concern if they:
Press against nerves or blood vessels.
Grow significantly in size.
Change in appearance or become painful.
Treatment Options
Treatment for lipomas may include:
Monitoring without intervention if they are not causing symptoms.
Surgical removal (excision) for cosmetic reasons, discomfort, or if they grow excessively.
Sometimes large lipomas will need Ultrasound or MRI before excision to rule out other pathology.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While sebaceous cysts and lipomas are generally harmless, you should seek medical attention if you notice:
Rapid growth or changes in appearance.
Pain, tenderness, or signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling).
Discharge from the growth.
Concerns about the location, size, or discomfort.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Both sebaceous cysts and lipomas can be diagnosed through a clinical examination. Treatment options will depend on the location, size and growth.
BOOK NOW
Our handpicked team of doctors, nurses and health professionals are here to make a meaningful difference to your life, at every stage of your life.
