possible sebaceous cyst on inner thigh

[NicGriff]

From my recent research I think i may have a sebaceous cyst on my left inner thigh, next to my bikini line. I was just wondering how long I should try the warm compresses before I see a physician. It is slightly tender to the touch so I am a little worried it may be inflamed. Any comments would be appreciated.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

From your description,it can be a boil or a sebaceous cyst.Boils are caused by infection of the hair follicle by staph aureus. A boil generally starts as a reddened, tender area. Over time, the area becomes firm and hard. Eventually, the center of the abscess softens and becomes filled with pus.

Sebaceous cyst is a closed sac or cyst below the surface of the skin that has a lining that resembles the uppermost part (infundibulum) of a hair follicle and fills with a fatty white, semi-solid material called sebum produced by sebaceous glands of the epidermis.It is usually painless but can become painful if infected.

Apply warm compresses on the lump and keep the area clean.Drainage is done only when it becomes soft and forms a head.Take some over the counter pain reliever and consult a doctor for examination and antibiotics prescription.Sebaceous cyst also need antibiotics when infected.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted if you have any additional queries.Kind regards.

[NicGriff]

Thank you so much for your info. I applied the compresses for a few days and it is slowly improving. Once again, I greatly appreciate your help.