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An epidermal (skin) cyst is a small, round lump in the top layer of skin called the epidermis. It may be filled with a soft, yellow substance called keratin. Skin cysts most often appear on the face, ears, back, or chest. But they can appear on almost any part of the body.
When you have an skin cyst, the lump or bump under the skin is:
An infected cyst will need to be treated by a doctor. This may involve opening it to let the contents out. It may also include taking antibiotics.
If a cyst is inflamed but not infected, or you are bothered by how the cyst looks, your doctor may treat or remove it.
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine & Heather Quinn MD - Family Medicine & JoLynn Montgomery PA - Family Medicine
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