^
Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Epidermal cyst: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Medical expert of the article

Dermatologist
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025

An epidermal cyst (syn. infundibular cyst) is a developmental defect. It is a slowly growing, dermo-hypodermal nodular formation localized on the scalp, face, neck and trunk. It can be of various sizes, but usually its diameter does not exceed 5 cm, has round or oval outlines. Multiple cysts are observed in Gardner's syndrome, combined with fibromas, desmoid tumors, osteomas of the skull bones and polyposis of the rectum prone to malignancy.

Pathomorphology. The wall of an epidermal cyst is similar in structure to the epidermis, the contents are lamellar keratin and cholesterol crystals. The wall of long-existing cysts is atrophic, lined with only 2-3 layers of epithelial cells. When the wall is damaged, a granulomatous reaction occurs with the formation of giant cells of foreign bodies, as a result of which the cyst is completely destroyed and resorbed. In some cases, the inflammatory reaction can cause pseudo-epitheliomatous hyperplasia of the remaining areas of the epidermis.

Histogenesis. According to some authors, epidermal cysts are histogenetically associated with the epithelium of the infundibular part of the hair follicle, as well as the intraepidermal sections of the ducts of the eccrine glands. Electron microscopy has shown that the epithelial cells that make up the cyst wall contain aggregated tonofilaments and keratohyalin granules, as in normal epidermis. In places of keratinization of epithelial cells, loss of desmosomes is observed.

What do need to examine?


The iLive portal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
The information published on the portal is for reference only and should not be used without consulting a specialist.
Carefully read the rules and policies of the site. You can also contact us!

Copyright © 2011 - 2025 iLive. All rights reserved.