- CDC News
- Adult Immunization
- Hepatology
- Rare Disorders
- Pediatric Immunization
- Weight Management
- Screening
- Psychiatry
- Allergy
- Women's Health
- Cardiology
- Pediatrics
- Kidney Disease
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Pain Management
- Gastroenterology
- Geriatrics
- Infectious Disease
- Orthopedics
- Obesity Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Technology
- Oncology
- Nephrology
- Neurology
- Pulmonology
Epidermal Cyst
This nodule on the neck is a typical location and appearance for an epidermal cyst. If the cyst has never been inflamed or infected, it may be removable through a very small punch biopsy followed by lateral pressure or a small linear incision.
A 67-year-old man sought medical attention because of the gradual development of a “lump” on his neck.
Key point: The nodule was smooth-surfaced, non-tender, somewhat compressible, and freely movable. The surface was slightly yellowish. This is both a typical location and appearance for an epidermal cyst.
Treatment: The patient was offered the option of elective excision. However, since the cyst had never caused any symptoms, the patient declined removal.
Note: An epidermal cyst that has never been inflamed or infected may well be removable though a very small punch biopsy followed by lateral pressure or a small linear incision. Cicatrix formation following inflammation or infection will usually result in more complex surgical intervention to achieve lesion removal.
