Kulsum International Hospital

Sebaceous Cysts

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Sebaceous cysts are common and usually painless. They can become infected.

Symptoms

  • A round lump under the skin
  • A small dark opening in the centre
  • Foul-smelling discharge
  • Redness and pain if infected

Causes and risk factors

They form from blocked hair follicles or skin glands. Skin injury and acne increase the risk.

Diagnosis

A doctor diagnoses them by examining the lump.

Treatment

No treatment is needed unless they cause problems. Infected cysts may need antibiotics or drainage. Cysts can be removed surgically.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if a cyst is painful, red, growing quickly or keeps coming back.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Sebaceous Cysts.

Dr. Tanveer Khaliq
General & Laparoscopic Surgery

Dr. Tanveer Khaliq

Consultant General & Laparoscopic Surgeon

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Dr. Syed Tanseer Asghar
General, Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgery

Dr. Syed Tanseer Asghar

Consultant Bariatric & Laparoscopic Surgeon

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Dr. Aamir Ghazanfar
General & Laparoscopic Surgery

Dr. Aamir Ghazanfar

Consultant General & Laparoscopic Surgeon

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Dr. Hadi Mohammad Khan
General & Laparoscopic Surgery

Dr. Hadi Mohammad Khan

Consultant General & Laparoscopic Surgeon

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