Multiple cysts on scrotum

[Sonor]

Since a few years ago I have had a problem with multiple slow growing cysts that cover the most part of my scrotum. I am a 20 yr old male and first noticed the condition when I was around 14-15. It started off as a few small cysts, now have grown and multiplied to 50-100 cysts ranging from pea-size to very tiny. Being in an embarassing area prevented seeing a doctor, but research suggested multiple Sebaceous Cysts or Steatocystoma Multiplex. The cysts are roundish, usually hard, express a cheesy material when lanced and squeezed. I am aware surgical removal of the entire sac is needed for permanent removal but the number of cysts prevents this. I visited the doctor who didn't know what they were. After getting worse I saw a new doctor, who gave me Doxycycline (50mg) and 5% benzoyl peroxide cream for external treatment. This was unsuccessful.

Images that slightly resemble my condition, but not as worse:
http://www.skinatlas.com/steatocystoma1.jpg
http://dermis.multimedica.de/bilder/CD016/100px/img0041.jpg

It is affecting my social and sexual life, I am avoiding relationships for fear that a partner will suspect I have a STD. I am hoping that you may have any type of suggested treatment or remedy at all for this rare condition, if not to clear, but at least reduce the appearance. Some things I have tried, or are going to try are: acne treatments, Fucidin (topical antibiotic cream), Hydrocortisol (topical), Warm compresses.

[Vespine]

Doctors & Surgeons all suggest the exact same approach. "Excision" & one of a number of pharmaceutical topical ointments or creams.                            

I too suffered in helplessness for over a decade, until I asked myself, not what I had & what could be done to rid or combat it, but instead, why my body was continually producing them. ( cysts )
After some indomitable research I discovered that some of us had a natural disposition when it came to sebum production to produce a thicker consistency of sebaceous fluid,that lubricates the skin & hair, & therefore made it more prone to blockage of the duct.

Picture " Thinner " added to paint, for a moment, or adding a lower viscosity engine oil to your vehicle during colder temperatures to assist with ease of flow. The same idea needs to be implemented to our bodies ( on the inside ) & not focus so much on the "external outbreak " that just keeps re-emerging.
( attack the source )

I also at one point had what my GP described as "clusters" of the bastards on either side of the scrotum.
Then I came across EFA's : Essential Fatty Acids.
OMEGA 3 Fish Oil, taken every day with meals, 3 - 9 capsules depending on the individual & drink lots of filtered water throughout the day.

I've taken it for the past 2 years with only a couple left & they too are on their way out.

It may be something I'll need to continue indefinately, but it works & sure beats having to take insulin injections ( In the case of Diabetics ) every day for life.

Be patient....give it a try.
After all......what have you got to lose ????    ^-^

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

From your description, I think you have ordinary cysts, not steatocystoma.  In general these are best left alone, because removal is not necessary and cumbersome (besides the fact that they would probably just come back.)  Antibiotics and compresses will not remove these.  Most people learn what they are and then learn to deal with telling partners that they aren't STD's and leave it at that.  Your self-consciousness seems understandable but excessive, and certainly detrimental to you social and personal well-being.  You ought to see a dermatologist who can tell you for certain what they are and whether any of them , perhaps the larger ones, can be removed.  You should also think seriously about getting the counseling you almost certainly could benefit from so you can get your social life back on track.

Good luck.

Dr. Rockoff

[Sonor]

A bigger picture of a sample condition is as follows:

http://dermis.multimedica.de/bilder/CD016/550px/img0041.jpg

[FriendlyNurse]

A related discussion, Cysts on my scrotum was started.

[Sonor]

Thanks for your advice.

I went to a new doctor who recommended surgery to remove some of the larger ones, which hopefully will reduce the appearance.

He also gave me some Differin cream to see if that works, which currently is making it a little worse but apparently that's what usually happens when people use it for cystic acne so I'm hoping for the best.

I realise you state there may be not a cure by damn it I'm trying anyway.

[Sonor]

Add: I was basically hoping that you could also give your medical suggestions for any form of treatment that I could pass on to the doctor on my next visit, since not many doctors in my area will probably know much about this off the top of their heads.