Multiple sebaceous cysts
Dear Doctor, does your hospital offer surgical treatment for multiple sebaceous cysts? My wife has discovered numerous subcutaneous tumors in her upper abdomen, and after inquiring, we learned that this is the condition in question.
tom, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/06/28
Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
Hello: The best management for multiple sebaceous cysts is to leave them alone, as leaving behind a significant amount of scarring that is more unsightly than the original lesions is not worth it.
There is no need to undergo painful surgery for benign and harmless conditions.
Reply Date: 2008/06/28
More Info
Surgical treatment options for multiple sebaceous cysts, also known as epidermoid cysts, are available in Taiwan and can be effectively managed by dermatologists or general surgeons. These cysts are benign, often painless lumps that can occur anywhere on the body, but are commonly found on the scalp, face, neck, and trunk. They arise from the sebaceous glands and are filled with a keratinous material.
When it comes to treatment, the primary option is surgical excision. This involves removing the cyst along with its entire capsule to prevent recurrence. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and the recovery time is relatively short. If your wife has multiple cysts, the surgeon may choose to remove them in one session or stage the surgeries over time, depending on their size, location, and the patient's overall health.
In addition to surgical excision, there are other treatment options that may be considered, although they are less common for multiple cysts:
1. Drainage: If a cyst becomes inflamed or infected, it may be drained to relieve discomfort. However, this does not remove the cyst itself, and it may recur.
2. Injection of corticosteroids: In some cases, injecting a corticosteroid into the cyst can reduce inflammation and size, but this is usually a temporary solution.
3. Laser therapy: This is sometimes used for cosmetic reasons, particularly for cysts on the face, but it may not be as effective as surgical excision for complete removal.
4. Cryotherapy: Freezing the cyst can also be an option, but like drainage, it may not prevent recurrence.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action based on the specific characteristics of the cysts and your wife's medical history. A dermatologist would be particularly well-suited to evaluate the cysts and recommend appropriate treatment.
Regarding the prognosis, sebaceous cysts are generally benign and do not pose significant health risks. However, if they become infected, they can lead to complications such as abscess formation. Surgical removal is usually curative, and most patients do not experience significant issues post-surgery.
As for the need for long-term management, if the cysts are completely excised, there is no need for ongoing treatment. However, if your wife has a predisposition to developing new cysts, she may need to monitor her skin for new growths and consult her healthcare provider as necessary.
In summary, surgical excision is the most effective treatment for multiple sebaceous cysts, and it is readily available in Taiwan. Consulting with a qualified dermatologist or surgeon will provide the best guidance for your wife's condition.
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