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Epidermoid Cysts

Epidermoid cysts are also referred to as epidermal cysts and are one of the most common forms of cutaneous cysts. Epidermoid cysts are due to the proliferation of epidermal cells within the dermis and generally form with or near the hair follicle.They are small lumps which develop under the skin. These cysts contain dead skin cells which look like small bumps, and the overlying skin is usually flesh colored, or yellow in appearance. Epidermoid cysts are primarily located on the face, neck, back, or genitals. They generally form in areas where there is little hair. Epidermoid cyst are often caused by clogged hair follicles due to a buildup of keratin. The epidermal cells form the walls of the cyst, and then secrete keratin into the interior of the cyst. Keratin is a protein found in the skin responsible for skin cell regeneration. These cysts can also be formed due to trauma and are called epidermal inclusion cysts. If these epidermal cysts become irritated, inflamed, or infected, they can be extremely painful.

Men are more than twice as likely as women to develop epidermoid cysts. Most of these cysts arise in adult life. Individuals prone to epidermoid cysts should be checked for underlying health conditions such as Gardner’s syndrome. These cysts are generally benign, although there have been rare cases of skin cancers arising from epidermoid cysts as sited in the mayoclinic.org. To successfully remove an epidermoid cyst, the cyst wall needs to be completely removed.  If part of the cyst wall remains, the cyst can grow back.