A sebaceous cyst is a bump that sometimes develops underneath the skin. This type of cyst can develop on any area of the body, although it is most likely to develop around hairy parts of the body, particularly the scalp. A sebaceous cyst is usually painless and is filled with a fluid that looks like cream cheese. Sebaceous cyst treatment is often unnecessary, although prescription medications or mild surgical procedures may be indicated in some cases.
A sebaceous cyst occurs most often as a result of a swollen hair follicle, although skin irritation may also be responsible for the development of this type of bump. A sebaceous cyst typically grows slowly and is painless, although discomfort may arise if the bump becomes red or inflamed, sometimes indicating the presence of an infection. A foul-smelling cheese-like substance may drain from the cyst.
Sebaceous cyst treatment is not always necessary, as these cysts typically go away on their own. This type of cyst is not considered dangerous and does not usually cause any pain or discomfort. If redness, inflammation, or discomfort are present, there are a few sebaceous cyst treatment methods that may help.
In many cases, the use of a warm, moist compress can be a helpful treatment. One easy way to accomplish this is to fill a small basin with very warm, but not hot, water. Soak a washcloth in the warm water and apply the washcloth to the affected area. This should be done several times per day for about 15 minutes at a time, warming the washcloth as necessary by placing it back into the warm water.
If the cyst is relatively small but becomes inflamed or irritated, sebaceous cyst treatment may consist of an injection at the doctor's office. Steroid medications are often injected into the cyst or the surrounding areas in order to reduce inflammation. This is a minor medical procedure and can be performed in the doctor's office during a routine visit. Oral antibiotics or antibiotic creams or ointments may also need to be prescribed.
Occasionally, the cyst may become large or develop a lot of redness, irritation, or discomfort. In these cases, sebaceous cyst treatment may involve surgical intervention. When this method of treatment becomes necessary, a simple surgery is performed to remove the cyst. This procedure is typically performed in the doctor's office, and the doctor must be careful to remove the entire cyst in order to decrease the chances of it returning at a later date.