Have you noticed a bump underneath your skin? If so, you may be experiencing a cyst. While most cysts are nothing to worry about, they can cause discomfort for some. For expert cyst diagnosis and treatment, look no further than Pinnacle Dermatology & Skin Rejuvenation. Our staff aims to provide each of our patients with quality and prompt service for effective results.
Cysts are closed, sac-like pockets that are usually filled with some sort of fluid or solid material composed of dead skin cells. They can grow almost anywhere on the body or underneath the skin. There are many different types of cysts, most of which are not harmful to your health.
Common types of cysts include:
Epidermoid Cysts: Epidermoid cysts are small, slow-growing cysts that usually form on the head, neck, face, back, or genitals. They are caused by a buildup of keratin within the cyst sac underneath the skin and can appear as skin-colored or yellow and are filled with a thick material.
Sebaceous Cysts: Sebaceous cysts are usually located on the face, neck, or torso, and appear spontaneously or from damage to the sebaceous glands, such as a wound. Large cysts may cause discomfort or pressure.
Pilar Cysts: Pilar cysts are noncancerous, flesh-colored bumps that develop underneath the skin. They are most commonly found on the scalp and are caused by outpouching of the lining of the in the hair follicle.
Ganglion Cysts: These cysts usually form near the joins of the hand or wrists but can also be found on the feet or ankles. They are formed by outpouching of the lining of the joint space.
While most cysts are nothing to be worried about, you should seek out your doctor’s opinion if your cyst is very large, growing in a sensitive area, is painful or looks infected, or is pressing on a nerve or blood vessel. Never try to remove or pop a cyst on your own, as this can cause the cyst to rupture and put you at risk for pain, swelling and infection.
There are a variety of different reasons why cysts may form, including infections, genetics, inherited diseases, chronic inflammation, or blockages in ducts. The exact cause of your cyst will depend on the type of classification it falls under.
The treatment method that is used to address your cyst will depend on a number of factors, including the type of cyst, the location, its size, and the amount of discomfort that it is causing. For very large cysts that cause symptoms, surgical removal may be an option. Other treatment options for cysts include draining the cyst by inserting a scalpel blade into the sac or injecting intralesional Kenalog to shrink the inflamed cyst. However, the cyst has a likelihood of returning if only drainage is performed.
The best way to determine which treatment option is right for you is through a consultation appointment with Dr. Gray. During this meeting, she will discuss your medical history with you, as well as the symptoms you are experiencing. A physical examination of the cyst will be performed, after which she will recommend the best plan of action.
If you are bothered by a cyst or would like to learn more about treatment options in the Bellevue, WA area, contact Pinnacle Dermatology & Skin Rejuvenation today. We will be happy to schedule your initial appointment with Dr. Gray.
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