What Do Scrotal Sebaceous Cysts Look Like?
- Appearance: Whitish, yellowish, or skin-colored lumps filled with a clear oily liquid or a putty-like substance.
- Size: They can range from 1-2 mm to larger ones measuring 1-2 cm.
- Number: These cysts can be single or multiple, sometimes covering the entire scrotum.
- Distribution: While the scrotum is the most common site, these cysts can also appear on the shaft of the penis or the foreskin, often scattered on both sides of the midline.
What Causes Sebaceous Cysts?
Sebaceous cysts develop when a sebaceous gland, which produces sebum (an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair), becomes blocked. Causes include:
- Developmental abnormalities: Problems in the development of sebaceous ducts.
- Trauma: Injuries pushing surface skin cells deeper into the skin.
- Genetic factors: Conditions like Gardner syndrome, which predispose individuals to multiple cysts.
Are There Natural Remedies for Sebaceous Cysts?
There are various natural remedies that may help manage sebaceous cysts, though their effectiveness can vary. Some options include:
- Warm compress: Applying a warm compress to the cyst can help reduce swelling and promote drainage.
- Tea tree oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil can be applied to the cyst to help prevent infection.
- Apple cider vinegar: Diluted apple cider vinegar may help reduce inflammation and prevent infection when applied topically
I strongly recommended that you always first seek medical advise.
Can You Get a Sebaceous Cyst in Other Areas of the Body?
Sebaceous cysts can form anywhere sebaceous glands are present. They are most common on the face and scalp but can appear on any skin area except the palms and soles.
Can I Pop The Sebaceous Cyst?
Even though some people do squeeze them, this is not the correct way to address them as they can recur if not completely rremoved.
How Are Sebaceous Cysts Treated?
- Conservative: if they are not causing any concern, however the patient needs to be aware that they can recur.
- Draining the cyst: Infected cysts can be drained with a small incision; however these can recur and complete removal of the cyst is needed to be planned once the infection settles as they can recur.
- Surgical removal: A minor surgical procedure under local anaesthesia effectively removes the cyst and its lining to prevent recurrence. However others can form in different locations.
How Do Sebaceous Cysts Affect Body Image?
Sebaceous cysts, particularly when numerous or large, can affect self-esteem and body image. Young males may feel self-conscious about these cysts on their scrotum. Addressing these concerns and offering reassurance about their benign nature, along with treatment options, is important.
Words of Wisdom from a Urologist
While generally benign and painless, it is essential to monitor any changes in size, appearance, or symptoms of sebaceous cysts. If you notice signs of infection or if the cysts become recurrent, seek medical advice. Proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure your overall health.
