What’s Causing This Cyst?

A cyst is a small sac of tissue that commonly contains fluid or pus. It can form because of trauma, infection, or other underlying issues. Most cysts are harmless, though some require treatment if complications arise.

Essentially, a cyst is a pouch-like structure of membranous tissue that encloses fluid, air, or other material. Cysts can develop nearly anywhere in the body or just below the skin.

There are numerous varieties of cysts, and the majority are benign, meaning they’re not cancerous.

Whether a cyst needs medical attention depends on several factors, such as:

• the specific type of cyst
• where the cyst is located
• whether it’s causing pain or discomfort
• whether the cyst is inflamed or infected

If you’re unsure about a possible skin issue, you can photograph the area and send it to an online dermatologist for evaluation.

Photos of pseudocysts

A pseudocyst resembles a true cyst in appearance, but the lump does not have a distinct epithelial lining. Below are three examples of pseudocysts.

Folliculitis (ingrown hair bump)

Folliculitis is inflammation or infection of hair follicles. It’s frequently caused by fungal or bacterial agents and can look similar to acne.

These pseudocysts commonly occur in people who remove hair by shaving or waxing. Ingrown hair bumps are one form of folliculitis. Although ingrown hair cysts can develop, bumps appearing near ingrown hairs are often razor bumps instead.

Razor bumps, also called pseudofolliculitis barbae, are a form of pseudofolliculitis. Unlike infectious folliculitis, pseudofolliculitis typically isn’t caused by pathogens.

Read more about ingrown hair cysts.

Chalazion

A chalazion is a small, generally painless lump on the eyelid that happens when the duct of a meibomian (oil) gland becomes blocked (source).

These pseudocysts may cause tenderness, blurred vision, and uncomfortable swelling. When they enlarge significantly, they can interfere with vision.

Read more about chalazia.

Cystic acne

Cystic acne is caused by a mix of bacteria, excess oil, and dead skin clogging pores. It’s the most severe acne form, though symptoms often lessen with age.

Cystic acne may appear as large, pus-filled nodules on the skin and can be painful when touched. If these lesions burst, they can lead to scarring.

Cystic acne most often affects the face, chest, neck, back, and arms.

If you suspect cystic acne, a dermatologist can prescribe treatments to manage it.

Learn more about acne treatments here.

How can you tell if something is a cyst?

A cyst commonly shows up as a lump on the skin. These can range from tiny, pimple-size nodules to considerably larger, noticeable swellings.

Some cysts develop deep within the body where they’re not palpable but may be associated with other symptoms.

For instance, ovarian cysts, such as those linked to polycystic ovary syndrome, can impair ovarian and reproductive function. Polycystic kidney disease, which causes multiple cysts in the kidneys, can negatively affect renal function.

Most cysts aren’t painful. They typically only cause problems if they’re:

• infected
• very large
• pressing on a nerve or blood vessel
• located in a sensitive area
• disrupting an organ’s function

What causes cysts and pseudocysts?

Cysts and pseudocysts develop for various reasons. Possible causes include:

• infections
• inherited disorders
• genetic predispositions
• long-term inflammation
• blockages in ducts

The specific origin varies according to the cyst or pseudocyst type.

When should you see a doctor about a cyst?

Make an appointment with a healthcare provider if your cyst becomes painful or increasingly red and swollen, since these signs might indicate rupture or infection.

Even if a cyst isn’t painful, it’s worth getting evaluated. Some growths can mimic or signal cancer, and a clinician may opt to remove a tissue sample for examination.

How are cysts managed?

You should never attempt to squeeze or pop a cyst or pseudocyst yourself; doing so raises the risk of infection.

Some cysts resolve on their own. Applying a warm compress can help a cyst drain and speed healing.

Other cases require professional medical care.

Medical interventions

Common clinical treatments for cysts include a healthcare professional:

• using a needle to aspirate fluid and debris from the cyst
• injecting medications, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation
• performing surgical excision of the cyst, which may be recommended if drainage fails or for internal cysts that need more invasive treatment

If you’re worried about a cyst and don’t have an established clinician, you can search for local doctors using the Healthline FindCare tool.

Prognosis

Most benign cysts and pseudocysts don’t lead to long-term problems and sometimes resolve without intervention.

Cysts can recur after drainage. If a cyst persistently refills, surgical removal may be considered.

For cysts that are cancerous, a medical professional will outline treatment options. The outlook depends on the malignancy type.

Can cysts and pseudocysts be prevented?

Many cysts and pseudocysts can’t be fully prevented, though there are exceptions. People who frequently develop ovarian cysts might reduce new cyst formation by using hormonal contraceptives.

You can help prevent pilonidal cysts by keeping the skin in the area clean and dry. Taking breaks from prolonged sitting may also reduce the risk.

Gently cleaning the eyelid along the lash line with a mild cleanser can help keep oil ducts clear and may lower the chance of chalazia forming.

Read this article in Spanish.