Skin cyst or infection help

[anonymous182]

I currently have a cyst or a really clogged pore on my upper back. I can squeeze it and get a really smelly white substance to come out, usually is in large quantities, but I cannot get it to go away. I have had it for several years and it is still there. Any idea what it is and what the best method of treatment would be?

[jagesh50]

A sebaceous cyst and best to get it removed some time.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The painless lump that you are having seems like a sebaceous cyst. A sebaceous cyst is a closed sac occurring just under the skin which contains a "pasty" or "cheesy" looking substance called keratin.They may occur anywhere on body but scalp, ears, back, face, and upper arm, are common sites for sebaceous cysts. Blocked sebaceous glands, swollen hair follicles and excessive testosterone production will cause such cysts.

Generally no treatment is required but they become painful then it means they are infected,Then surgical excision by traditional wide excision, minimal excision, and punch biopsy excision may be required.
Hope it helps.Take care and regards.

[anonymous182]

The only problem I have with surgery is the issue of scarring. I have had moles removed and I get keloids, which I am not a fan of. Does the removal of a sebaceous cyst usually leave a large, or rather noticeable scar? Also is it an expensive surgery? Thanks so much for the help thus far!