Causes of Cysts on the Head

A pilar cyst is commonly a smooth, firm, rounded lump in the scalp. It may stay stable for a long time, become noticeable when brushing, or run in families. A blocked follicle or previous irritation may be involved. Not every scalp lump is a cyst: skin lumps can include inflamed follicles, lipomas, or other growths. A clinician may examine the surface and feel the lump to distinguish possibilities. A cyst can become tender, red, swollen, or drain if its wall is inflamed or infected.

Do not squeeze, pierce, or repeatedly press the lump, because this can rupture it and irritate the surrounding skin. Keep the area clean and note changes in size, tenderness, redness, drainage, or bleeding. If it catches on clothing or combs, arrange a dermatology assessment. Cyst Removal may be considered when the diagnosis is clear and the lump is troublesome, recurrent, or inflamed; treatment choices depend on the cyst and surrounding tissue.

Book an appointment for a new, enlarging, painful, firm, or fixed lump, or one that repeatedly drains. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, marked swelling, pus, fever, or severe pain. Urgent assessment is also appropriate for a lump that bleeds, ulcerates, or changes quickly, because those features should not be assumed to be a simple cyst.

Ask what features support a cyst diagnosis, whether it needs monitoring or removal, what happens if it becomes inflamed, and how a procedure could affect hair and the scalp. Mention previous lumps, drainage, family history, and any rapid change.