Skin cysts
Smooth lumps under the skin that can become inflamed or infected.
The most common skin cysts are epidermoid cysts (sometimes called sebaceous cysts) and pilar cysts on the scalp. They are usually harmless, slow-growing lumps, sometimes with a small central opening.
Cysts can become red, swollen and painful if they become inflamed or infected, and they can recur if not fully removed.
How We Can Help
- Assessment of the lump to confirm it is a cyst.
- Treatment of inflamed or infected cysts.
- Discussion of surgical removal for cysts that are troublesome, recurrent or bothersome, usually under local anaesthetic.
When to get urgent help: If a lump is growing quickly, is hard or fixed, or you are unsure what it is, have it checked promptly.
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This page is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice.