Effective Medication Strategies for Treating Inflamed Skin Cysts

Medication treatment for sebaceous cysts?

Hello, doctor.
Three weeks ago, a sebaceous cyst on my buttock became inflamed and enlarged (it was about the size of a 50 NT dollar coin during high school, and has swollen to the size of a plum).
Due to the pandemic, I went to the pharmacy to buy antibacterial antibiotics and a topical ointment.
Eventually, it reduced in size and ruptured, after which a white membrane came out.
After cleaning, there was a 1 cm diameter hole left.
I continued to apply the ointment, and since it coincided with my menstrual period, I used waterproof bandages to keep it secure.
Each time I changed the dressing, fluid would leak from the hole.
After a few days, the hole began to gradually heal, but the surrounding area, about the size of a 10 NT dollar coin, remains hard.
I'm unsure how to proceed.
Is it healing quickly, or is there a chance of new growth? Should I continue applying the ointment and bandage, or should I also take medication? I apologize for the lengthy explanation, and I appreciate your guidance.
Thank you!

Xiao Zhu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/29

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

If it is a cyst, after inflammation and rupture, it will heal but may return to its original state.
If there is concern about recurrence, surgical removal may be considered.

Reply Date: 2021/06/29

More Info

When dealing with inflamed skin cysts, particularly those that have become infected or have ruptured, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive treatment strategy to promote healing and prevent further complications. Based on your description, it sounds like you have been proactive in managing the situation, but there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

First, let's discuss the medications you mentioned: topical antibiotics and ointments. Topical antibiotics, such as those you may have purchased over the counter, can be effective in preventing infection and promoting healing in the initial stages of an inflamed cyst. However, if the cyst has ruptured and is draining, it is crucial to ensure that the area remains clean and free from further infection. Applying a topical antibiotic ointment can help in this regard, but it is also important to monitor for signs of persistent infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.

The presence of a white membrane after the cyst has drained is not uncommon. This membrane can be part of the healing process, but it is essential to keep the area clean and dry to facilitate proper healing. You mentioned using waterproof dressings, which can be beneficial in keeping the area protected, especially during menstruation. However, it is important to change the dressing regularly to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to further irritation or infection.

Regarding the hard area surrounding the cyst, it is not unusual for there to be some residual firmness after a cyst has drained. This can be due to inflammation or scar tissue formation. If the area continues to feel hard and does not improve over time, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional for further evaluation. They may recommend additional treatments, such as corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation or, in some cases, surgical intervention if the cyst is recurrent or problematic.

As for whether to continue using the ointment and dressing, it is generally advisable to keep the area protected while it heals. If you notice any signs of infection or if the area does not improve, it would be prudent to seek medical advice. In some cases, oral antibiotics may be necessary if there is a significant risk of systemic infection or if the topical treatments are insufficient.

In summary, the effective management of inflamed skin cysts involves:
1. Maintaining cleanliness: Regularly clean the area with mild soap and water to prevent infection.

2. Using topical antibiotics: Continue applying a topical antibiotic ointment as directed to promote healing and prevent infection.

3. Monitoring for signs of infection: Watch for increased redness, swelling, or discharge, which may indicate a need for further medical intervention.

4. Consulting a healthcare professional: If the area remains hard or does not improve, or if you have concerns about the healing process, seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation.

Ultimately, while self-care is important, professional guidance can provide the best outcomes for managing skin conditions effectively.

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