What should you know about ruptured cyst on skin?

A cyst is a sac beneath the skin that may contain keratin or other material. When its wall breaks, the contents can spill into nearby tissue, causing tenderness, swelling, redness, and an unpleasant-smelling discharge. This inflammation can resemble an abscess, but the two problems are not identical. A clinician may inspect the opening, surrounding skin, and any remaining lump.

Wash your hands, rinse the area gently with clean water, pat it dry, and cover it with a fresh dressing if it is draining. Do not squeeze, probe, or try to empty the sac, because pressure can push material deeper and irritate the skin. Avoid sharing towels. A review may lead to a dressing plan, a [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/) for selected inflammation, [Abscess Drainage](/treatments/minor-procedures/abscess-drainage/), or [Cyst Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cyst-removal/) after inflammation settles.

Seek prompt medical care if redness is spreading, pain is increasing, the area feels hot, drainage is thick or foul-smelling, or you develop fever or feel unwell. Arrange assessment when a lump remains after the opening closes, because the cyst lining may still be present and can refill. Urgent attention is sensible for facial swelling near the eye, rapidly worsening symptoms, or difficulty opening the mouth.

Does this look like a ruptured cyst or an abscess? Is there a retained cyst wall? How should the wound be covered and cleaned? When would removal be safest?