Sebaceous Cysts Flashcards
Define Sebaceous Cyst?
Epithelium-lined, keratinous, debris-filled cyst arising from a blocked hair follicle
Also known as an epidermal cyst
What is the aetiology of Sebaceous Cyst?
Occlusion of the pilosebaceous gland
Can be caused by traumatic insertion of epidermal elements into the dermis
Embryonic remnants
What are the risk factors for Sebaceous Cyst?
Gardner’s Syndrome
What is Gardner’s Syndrome?
Autosomal dominant condition charaterised by the presence of multiple polyps in the colon and in extra-colonic sites (e.g. sebaceous cyst, thyroid cancer, fibroma)
What is the epidemiology of Sebaceous Cyst?
Very Common at any age
What are the presenting symptoms of Sebaceous Cysts?
Non-tender slow-growing skin swelling
There are often multiple
Common on hair-bearing regions of the body (e.g. face, scalp, trunk or scrotum)
May become red, hot and tender if there is superimposed infection or inflammation
What are the signs of Sebaceous Cysts on physical examination?
Smooth tethered lump
Overlying skin punctum
May discharge granular creamy material that smells bad
What investigations might you do for Sebaceous Cysts?
NONE needed
Skin biopsy or FNA may be used to rule out other differentials
What is the conservative management plan for Sebaceous Cysts?
May be left alone if its not causing the patient any distress
What is the surgical management plan for Sebaceous Cysts?
Excision of the cyst under local anaesthesia
What is the medical management plan for Sebaceous Cysts?
Antibiotics if there is an infection
What are the possible complications of Sebaceous Cysts?
Infection
Abscess formation
Recurrence (if incomplete excision)
May ulcerate
