Sabaceous Cysts

[HelpinUtah]

I have a sabaceous cyst on my upper, middle back.  Actually, there appears to be two of them.  Years ago, my family doctor looked at them and said that they could remove them, but that they would just come back again.  Lately, it seems that they are itching all the time and the past couple days they are sore, swollen and red.  Is this something to worry about or is it normal?  I can't get in to see my doctor unitl next month - she's out of town.  

Thanks for any advice or ideas you can give me.  

[juleslu]

My husband has these Cysts, recently one became infected.  it was drained and he was put on oral antibiotics. It is much better, but, it has to stay open and drain and heal from the inside out. I have been using a Qtip to keep it open and changing his dressing twice daily. He also has RX antibiotic onitment. Before it got better, it did tunnel and start to ooze from another tiny hole near the cyst. These things are nasty. See a Dr. make sure it is not staph or MRSA!

[HelpinUtah]

Thank you so much for your response.  I will try the heating pad and see if that improves.  ~~~Janet

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

Sebaceous cysts may grow, become painful or infected.  In your case, this may be infected and requires oral antibiotics or other treatment before and/or after excision.  Placement of a heat-pad directly on the cyst for about fifteen minutes, twice daily may also help. However, if your symptoms persist, have this evaluated for proper management. Try not to pop the cyst to prevent further infection.  Take care and keep us posted.