These round-shaped lesions arise due to the occlusion of a sebaceous gland, which, unable to properly dispose of its secretion, swells developing the sebaceous cyst.
Sebaceous cysts can occur in different areas of the body and are benign in nature. However, it is good to identify them and choose the most appropriate treatment for removal.
In this guide, we will focus on sebaceous cysts of the scalp, the causes of their occurrence, and how to treat them.
Useful information about sebaceous cyst of the head
From the definition of a head cyst to how to remove it, here’s what you need to know about sebaceous cysts of the scalp.
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What is a sebaceous cyst
To begin our guide, let’s give a definition of a sebaceous cyst and try to understand how and why it develops.
As we mentioned, sebaceous cyst is a subcutaneous, usually roundish neoformation.
Infrequent in children and women, this phenomenon should be considered benign in nature. If you are wondering whether the cyst in your head is dangerous, therefore, you can rest assured that it is a phenomenon that is absolutely treatable by a specialist.
The cause of a cyst in the head is usually the solidification of the secretion of a sebaceous gland that becomes occluded and can no longer dispose of its production; thus the hair follicle swells, generating this kind of bulge.
There are factors that can predispose individuals to the development of cysts. These are, for example:
- Tobacco
- Alcohol
- Anxiogenic conditions
- Stress
- Some types of cosmetics
Sebaceous cysts of the scalp are only one type of this manifestation; in fact, these can appear in different areas of the body, resulting in a cyst in the groin, ear, face, and back, for example.
Manifestation
The development and growth of a sebaceous scalp cyst is mostly slow and uncomfortable. They range in size from a few millimeters to as much as 5/6 centimeters in diameter.
Sebaceous cyst of the head has the appearance of a kind of ball equipped with an outer capsule. Enclosed within the cyst is residual material and sebum, which is whitish in color and particularly malodorous.
Trying to burst a sebaceous cyst on your own can cause its contents to leak outward and increase the risks of infection. That is why it is important to submit yourself to the judgment of a specialist, who will be able to guide you in the right way.
Removal of cysts in the head
Treatment and eventual removal of sebaceous cysts of the scalp may vary from case to case.
In some cases, cysts can be treated with topical products such as ointments alongside oral medications. If there isongoing inflammation, the specialist may prescribe corticosteroids or antibiotics in order to reduce the swelling.
If the cyst does not respond to therapy or presents as particularly severe, it can be removed surgically through a small incision under local anesthesia.
Once the cyst is removed, a small sutured wound covered with a dressing will remain on the scalp, to be kept for about 10 days and replaced as directed by the doctor.
Results and contraindications
Sebaceous cysts of the scalp are not dangerous and, if they do not become inflamed, also tend not to generate pain.
Depending on the case, the specialist will be able to provide valuable treatment support to achieve optimal and definitive results.
Any surgical removal does not involve serious side effects, and normal activities can be resumed immediately.
Do you think you have a sebaceous cyst and need a solution for your problem?
Trust our firm: we are located in Rome, at 212 Via Cola di Rienzo.
To book an appointment, email us or call us at 06 45471658
