Atheroma cysts are closed sacs contains oil (sebum) and tiny granules of keratin which lies beneath the surface of the skin. Cysts that are formed due to blockage of oil glands in the skin can be cured with minor surgery or laser.
Atheroma cysts are shaped like lumps or bumps, which often appear on the face, scalp, neck, nape or back of the neck, or body. These cysts occur when sweat glands or hair follicles become blocked. Small cysts are generally painless, but if they get bigger they can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Those of you who have frequent acne have a greater risk of developing atheroma cysts.
Causes of Atheroma Cysts
Atheroma cysts can form when the oil glands or ducts (sebaceous glands) are damaged or blocked. This is what makes atheroma cysts also known as sebaceous cysts. Sebaceous glands are glands that secrete an oil called sebum which coats the skin and hair.
The cause of the blockage and damage is a history of injury, such as surgical scars, scratches, and acne in the area where the atheroma cyst is located. Atheroma cysts tend to grow slowly. Therefore, sometimes you may not realize that you have suffered from these cysts due to trauma that occurred a few weeks ago.
In addition to blockage of the sebaceous glands, atheroma cysts can also be caused by the following:
- There is damage to skin cells caused by the surgical procedure.
- The presence of genetic factors, such as Gardner's syndrome or basal cell nevus syndrome.
- There is damage to the sebaceous gland ducts.
Atheroma Cyst Treatment
The majority of atheroma cysts do not require treatment or cause other problems. However, to prevent infection and scarring, never squeeze the cyst. In addition, you can compress the cyst using a towel that has been moistened with warm water so that the cyst fluid comes out and gradually heals.
However, if the atheroma cyst enlarges or causes bothersome complaints, you can go to the doctor to treat an atheroma cyst, here are things doctors can do to treat an atheroma cyst:
- Injection
The doctor will inject the atheroma cyst with medication that can reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Incision and suction
The doctor can make a small incision in the atheroma cyst and gently remove the contents of the cyst. This method is easy to do, but the cyst can grow back after this treatment.
- Laser
Doctors can use a laser to punch holes in the atheroma cyst and remove the contents inside. The skin of the cyst will be removed about a month later.
- Minor surgery
Doctors can remove the entire atheroma cyst with minor surgery (minor surgery). This operation is declared safe and effective in preventing atheroma cysts from growing back in the future.
You are advised to seek medical attention immediately if an atheroma cyst grows on your finger, enlarges rapidly, bursts, is painful, appears infected, or interferes with your appearance. Doctors can provide various treatment options to treat atheroma cysts quickly, effectively, and with minimal risk.