Nappy rash, medically known as diaper dermatitis is a form of dermatitis around the groin, upper thighs and buttocks. As the name …
Is Surgery Intervention Necessary? An Insight into the Surgical Removal of Epidermal Cysts
An epidermal cyst is a common skin condition that occurs more frequently in men than in women. These cysts typically develop in areas with active glands, such as the scalp, face, neck, hands, feet, and genitals.
Content
Formation of Epidermal Cysts
Epidermal cysts usually form when hair follicles become blocked, leading to the accumulation of proteins and other substances, which results in cyst formation. While these cysts are often classified as benign and are generally not life-threatening, there is a theoretical risk of them becoming malignant in rare instances, potentially leading to the spread of cancerous cells to other parts of the body. In such cases, complications may arise, necessitating surgical intervention.
Potential Complications of Epidermal Cysts
If an epidermal cyst continues to grow, particularly in areas subject to pressure, it may lead to complications such as rupture, inflammation, or bacterial infection. Symptoms of an infected or ruptured cyst can include redness, swelling, pain, and the discharge of pus. When these symptoms occur, a doctor may recommend surgical removal of the cyst.
The Surgical Procedure
The surgical procedure typically involves the following steps:
Local Anesthesia: The procedure begins with the administration of local anaesthesia near the cyst to ensure that the patient experiences no pain during the operation.
Cyst Removal: Once the area is numb, the doctor will excise the entire cyst, including its surrounding sac, to prevent recurrence. The incision is generally made over the marked point on the skin.
Wound Closure: After the cyst has been removed, the wound is closed using dissolvable sutures in multiple layers to promote optimal healing. The outer sutures will be removed later, leaving minimal scarring.
Post-Surgery Care
Following the surgery, the wound is covered with a waterproof dressing. The outer sutures are typically removed by a doctor after 10 to 14 days, while the inner sutures will dissolve naturally within 2 to 4 weeks.
Key Takeaways
Epidermal cysts are generally benign; however, surgical intervention may be required in certain circumstances. If you suspect you have an epidermal cyst, it is advisable to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Monitoring any changes and addressing them promptly can help prevent complications and ensure a smoother recovery.
Do not ignore changes in an epidermal cyst—early treatment is crucial for avoiding unnecessary complications.
These are common wart-like, rough spots or bumps that range in color from flesh to brown or even black. They occur on …
Who doesn’t like to have a nice brunch and chill under the warm bright sun when the gloomy winter has finally left …
Summer is the time to enjoy the sun! Sunburns therefore happen more frequently in summer months. You can get sunburn after staying …