Cysts

A cyst is an abnormal growth consisting of a closed sac filled with fluid or solid material.  The material within the cyst is usually produced by the cells that make up the lining, or wall, of the cyst.  Cysts form for a variety of reasons, depending to some degree on the tissue involved.  Some cysts that form in the adrenal glands are caused by bacterial infections or by parasites.

Causes and Development

Most cysts are benign and caused by plugged ducts or other outlets of bodily secretions which cause a fluid build-up.  However, some cysts may be tumors and are formed inside tumors – these can be potentially malignant.  Other causes include:

• various genetic conditions
• cell defects
• impact injury that breaks a vessel

Signs and Symptoms

There are many possible signs and symptoms of cysts, depending on the type of cyst.  Often the patient becomes aware of an abnormal lump under the skin.  Breast cysts may be noticeable when the breasts are examined by touching them, and are often painful.

Some cysts in the brain can cause headaches, as well as other symptoms.  Other internal cysts, such as those in the kidneys or the liver, may go unnoticed until an imaging scan (X-ray, MRI scan, CAT scan, ultrasound) detects them.

The most common type of cyst is the sebaceous cyst.  Also called epidermoid, pilar, and vulvar cysts, they are harmless, slow-growing bumps under the skin, often appearing on the scalp, face, ears, back of the neck, back, upper chest or groin area (typically the vulva or labia).  They are usually rounded, non-tender and of varying size.

Any redness, tenderness, or increased temperature of skin over area may indicate an infection.  Grayish white, cheesy material from the cyst (if drained or squeezed) may have a bad odor.