What should you know about drain sebaceous cyst?

A so-called sebaceous cyst is often an epidermoid cyst: a sac under the skin containing keratin. Pressure, friction, or inflammation can make it tender, red, or swollen. A lump may also be an abscess or another type of skin lump, so the label should be checked. Opening the centre may release material but does not necessarily remove the sac that produces it.

Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing or puncturing it, and use a warm compress only if it is comfortable and a clinician has not advised otherwise. Arrange an appointment, especially if the lump is recurrent or bothersome. A clinician may calm inflammation with an injection, drain an abscess when appropriate, or discuss cyst removal after inflammation settles. Do not share towels if the area is draining.

Seek prompt care for spreading redness, increasing warmth, severe pain, fever, pus, red streaks, or a cyst near the eye. Emergency assessment is needed for confusion, faintness, or feeling severely unwell. A rapidly enlarging, firm, fixed, bleeding, or repeatedly returning lump also needs examination rather than repeated home drainage.

Ask whether this is an epidermoid cyst or abscess, whether drainage is needed, how recurrence can be reduced, when removal is appropriate, and how to dress the area if it opens.