If you have noticed unexplained lumps anywhere on your body, it’s time to have them checked out by a doctor. Some lumps are harmless, but some may indicate more serious medical problems that need immediate treatment.
At Florida’s Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Windermere, Dr. Jeannette Hudgens and our medical team offer exams and testing to determine if lumps are cause for concern, and whether treatment is needed.
If you notice a lump that you can’t explain, don’t ignore it or delay having it checked by a physician. Contact Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center today to learn more about our treatments, or to schedule an appointment.
Part of our practice includes diagnosing and removing cysts.
What Are Cysts?
Epidermal cysts are lumps that grow slowly beneath your skin. This common type of cyst is made up of soft skin content that gathers underneath the skin.
These cysts are typically found on the:
- Face.
- Neck.
- Chest.
- Upper back.
- Behind your ears.
Similar cysts, known as pilar cysts, can appear on your scalp.
Cysts can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- When skin cells block hair follicles: After an injury to your skin, cells from the surface can block your hair follicles, which are found under the skin.
- Hair follicle damage from acne.
- A blocked sebaceous gland: This gland is located close to the hair follicle. The gland’s function is to secrete oily material that your body needs to lubricate hair and skin.
Am I At Risk?
Skin injuries, including damage from acne, boosts your risk of developing epidermal and other cysts.
Symptoms
It’s important to look out for cyst symptoms, but don’t take it upon yourself to diagnose your condition as a cyst. Cyst-like symptoms may in fact be the result of other, more serious medical conditions.
That’s why it’s important to seek medical attention if:
- You notice a small lump beneath your skin. These cysts are often shaped like a dome.
- You have unpleasant-smelling material that may resemble cottage cheese draining from your cyst.
- You notice tenderness or redness around a cyst, or if your lump becomes inflamed.
Diagnosis
At Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, we will meet with you one-on-one to review your medical history and symptoms. We’ll perform a physical exam to determine if your lump is a cyst. In most cases, this exam is all that’s needed for a proper diagnosis.
If another skin condition or medical problem is suspected, we may recommend a biopsy or other test to make a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
Treatments
Treatment for cysts often can include:
- Surgical excision: Doctor Hudgens will remove the entire cyst.
- Drainage: This method involves having your cyst cut open and drained. This technique relieves symptoms, but does not guarantee cysts won’t return.
- Antibiotics: Doctor Hudgens can prescribe medication to treat cysts that may be infected.
If you have a lump under your skin, contact Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center to schedule an appointment. Our medical team can determine if your lump is a cyst and take action to treat your condition safely and effectively.