Unusual Skin Conditions on Your Father's Back

There is an unusual condition on the father's back?

Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about my father's condition.
He is 65 years old and has had an issue on his back near the shoulders and the center of the right side for a long time.
It's not exactly a problem since he reports no pain, itching, or swelling, and it does not affect his daily life.
There are two prominent large pores (approximately 1mm in diameter) on the back of each shoulder, which, when squeezed, expel a yellowish, odorless, string-like substance.
The center of the right side of his back does not have noticeable large pores, but when squeezed, it releases a white substance similar to acne with a foul odor.
The three areas do not have significant protrusions, feel relatively firm, and have a diameter of about 2 to 3 cm, but there are no hard lumps detected, and they are not painful or itchy.
Could you please advise what might be going on with my father's back? Is it a sebaceous cyst? A lipoma? And how should it be managed?

Chì Guàn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/10/24

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Based on your description, it seems to be a sebaceous cyst.
However, a definitive diagnosis can only be made after an examination.
Generally, no special treatment is required; if treatment is necessary, you may consider having a surgeon perform an excision.

Reply Date: 2011/10/24

More Info

Based on your description of your father's skin condition, it sounds like he may be experiencing sebaceous cysts, commonly referred to as epidermoid cysts or pilar cysts. These cysts are typically benign and can occur when hair follicles become clogged with keratin, leading to the formation of a small sac filled with a thick, yellowish substance. The fact that your father reports no pain or itching and that the cysts do not affect his daily life is a good sign, as these characteristics are common in benign cysts.

The presence of large pores that can expel a yellowish substance suggests that these may be sebaceous glands that are overactive or clogged. The white, foul-smelling substance that can be expressed from the cysts may indicate the presence of keratin and sebum, which can accumulate in these cysts. The odor is not uncommon and can be attributed to the breakdown of the material inside the cyst.

In terms of treatment, if the cysts are not causing any discomfort or cosmetic concerns, they typically do not require intervention. However, if your father wishes to have them removed for aesthetic reasons or if they become infected or inflamed, a healthcare provider can perform a simple surgical procedure to excise the cyst. This is usually done under local anesthesia and is a straightforward outpatient procedure.

It is important to note that while sebaceous cysts are generally harmless, any changes in the skin, such as sudden growth, pain, or changes in color, should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Given your father's age and the presence of diabetes, it is advisable to monitor these cysts closely. Diabetes can affect skin health and healing, so any signs of infection or complications should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional.

In addition, maintaining good skin hygiene is essential. Regular washing with a gentle cleanser can help prevent the buildup of oils and debris that may contribute to the formation of cysts. If your father is experiencing any discomfort or if the cysts become inflamed, applying warm compresses may help reduce inflammation and promote drainage.

If your father is hesitant to seek medical attention, you might encourage him to consider a consultation with a dermatologist, especially if he has concerns about the appearance of his skin or if he experiences any changes in the cysts. A healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

In summary, while the symptoms you describe are consistent with sebaceous cysts, it is always best to have a healthcare professional evaluate any skin condition to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Encouraging your father to maintain good skin hygiene and to monitor any changes in his skin will be beneficial in managing his condition.

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