Cyst on Scalp: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

When it comes to defining a cyst, it is a sac which may be filled with fluid, air, or tissues. An individual can develop cyst on any part of the body. When talking about Cyst on the Scalp, it can vary in their shape and size and are relatively benign. One of the most common misconceptions about Cysts on the Scalp is that they can be cancerous but studies show that most of these types of cyst are benign although there are some instances of them being malignant. There are various types of Cysts on the Scalp of which the most common is the epidermoid cyst. The diameter of these types of cyst can range from a few millimeters to up to 5 cm. In some cases Cysts on the Scalp can develop due to an infected hair follicle or an abnormal skin condition like acne.

When talking about the cause of Cysts on the Scalp, these are caused due to certain cells which are normally at the surface of the skin going deeper into the skin but they continue to multiply and ultimately form a sac like structure and keep producing keratin which gradually becomes soggy and fluid like and this results in development of a Cyst on the Scalp.

Most of Cysts on the Scalp are asymptomatic but in some cases there may be certain symptoms experienced by the patient. Some of the symptoms are:

• If the scalp cyst becomes infected it may become erythematous, inflamed and cause pain.
• There may be a rupture of cyst on scalp leaking out a semisolid like material
• There may be development of a horn like structure over the cyst on scalp.
• The scalp cyst at times may be uncomfortable or painful, though it usually does not cause any pain.

Cysts on the Scalp by no means can be prevented but they can definitely be treated. The best way to treat is by surgically removing the scalp cyst. This can be done as an outpatient and is not a major procedure. In case the cyst gets infected then a course of antibiotics may be prescribed to get rid of the infection before removing the cyst. The procedure for removal of the cyst is quite simple and is done under local anesthesia. The area surrounding the cyst is made numb by a local anesthetic.

Following this, a very small incision is made over the cyst. Normally, the cyst can be easily pulled out and the wound is then sutured. This may cause a small scar but it usually fades away with time. This is the best way to get rid of Cysts on the Scalp.

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Also Read:

• What is Epidermoid Cyst, Know the Treatment & Home Remedies to Get Rid of it
• Sebaceous Cyst: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prognosis