Skin & Soft Tissue: Epidermoid Cyst

Epidermoid Cyst

Definition

  • Also Known as “Epidermal Inclusion Cyst” & “Sebaceous Cyst”
  • Benign Keratin Containing Cavity Surrounded by a Cystic Wall of Stratified Squamous Epithelium
  • Most Common Skin Cyst

Presentation

  • Dermal Nodule
  • Skin Colored
  • May Have a Central Punctum
  • Occur Anywhere Over the Body
  • Can Rupture (Cause Inflammation & Pain)
  • Can Become Infected (Fluctuant, Erythematous, Painful & Purulent)

Diagnosis

  • Mostly Clinical (Based on History and Physical Exam)

Epidermoid Cyst 1

Inflamed Epidermoid Cyst 2

Treatment

  • Asymptomatic: Nothing
  • Symptomatic or Patient Preference (Cosmesis): Excision
    • Failure to Remove Entire Cyst Wall Significantly Increases Risk of Recurrence
  • Acutely Inflamed or Infected: Incision & Drainage (I&D)
    • Excision Difficult When Inflamed Because Wall is Very Friable

Epidermoid Cyst Excision 3

References

  1. Peter KD. Wikimedia Commons. (License: CC BY-3.0)
  2. Fruitsmaak S. Wikimedia Commons. (License: CC BY-SA-3.0)
  3. SF. Wikimedia Commons. (License: CC BY-SA-3.0)