A sebaceous (epidermoid) cyst is a closed sac under the skin containing thick white material (keratin). Very common and benign.
Symptoms:
- Round firm lump: Just under the skin — doesn't move easily (unlike lipoma).
- Central punctum: Black dot in the center — characteristic sign.
- Painless: Unless infected.
- Common locations: Face, neck, back, behind the ear.
Infection:
- Cyst may suddenly become infected — turns red, painful, and swollen.
- May become an abscess — needs urgent drainage.
- Don't squeeze it — worsens infection.
Treatment:
- Quiet cyst: Complete surgical excision with capsule — prevents recurrence.
- Infected cyst: Antibiotics first ± drainage → then excision after weeks.
- Procedure: Local anesthesia — 20-30 minutes — goes home immediately.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we remove the cyst with its complete capsule to prevent recurrence using cosmetic technique.