OVERVIEW

What is a subcutaneous cyst in the head and neck?

A subcutaneous cyst in the head and neck is a space-occupying lesion located in this region, primarily presenting as spherical masses ranging from 1 to 3 cm in diameter. There may be one or multiple cysts, which feel soft or firm to the touch.

Depending on the nature of the cyst, it can be classified into three types: epidermoid cysts, dermoid cysts, and sebaceous cysts. Most cysts can be completely cured through surgery, followed by pathological examination to further determine the nature of the lesion. Isolation is not required during the illness, and quality of life is not significantly affected.

Who is most commonly affected by subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

They are most common in young adults.

SYMPTOMS

What are the common manifestations of subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

• Epidermal cyst: Often has a history of trauma. It usually forms when the epidermis enters the subcutaneous tissue due to trauma and then grows into a cyst. The depth can range from subcutaneous tissue to any layer above the periosteum. The contents are mostly white and bean-curd-like, with a smooth but opaque cyst wall that is movable.

• Dermoid cyst: A benign teratoma (or hamartoma) that grows subcutaneously. The cyst wall is smooth and translucent, with diverse contents such as teeth or hair. It is usually located above the subcutaneous muscle and is movable.

• Sebaceous cyst: Caused by blockage of the sebaceous gland duct, preventing sebum from being excreted and accumulating in the skin to form a cyst. Located within the skin and immovable.

How do subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck develop?

Most are discovered due to localized skin protrusions, and some may occur at the site of previous trauma.

CAUSES

What are the causes of subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

The exact cause of subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck is unclear, but some may be related to trauma.

DIAGNOSIS

How to diagnose subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

When diagnosing subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck, doctors primarily rely on trauma history, localized subcutaneous masses, and postoperative pathology for confirmation.

What tests are needed for suspected cases of subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

Patients are generally advised to undergo ultrasound or surgery:

• Ultrasound: An ultrasound of the affected area may reveal cystic nodules. The echo intensity helps preliminarily assess the nature and depth of the nodules.

• Surgery: This serves both as a diagnostic and therapeutic measure. Postoperative pathological examination can definitively determine the nature of the lesion.

Which conditions are easily confused with subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

They are often differentiated from various types of superficial skin tumors.

TREATMENT

Which department should I visit for subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

Dermatology, general surgery, or head and neck surgery.

What are the treatment options for subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

• Sebaceous cysts:

  • Patients without infection should undergo surgery as soon as possible to completely remove the cyst, resulting in a short recovery time, good outcomes, and low recurrence rates.

  • Patients with mild infection should undergo incision and drainage, followed by cyst wall excision, with measures to prevent infection spread. These patients may experience recurrence, and treatment outcomes are moderate.

  • Patients with severe infection require immediate incision and drainage, wound management for one to two days until healing, and cyst removal surgery within one to three months after infection control. These patients are highly prone to recurrence, with prolonged recovery and poorer outcomes.

• Epidermoid cysts: Follow-up observation is sufficient, as malignant transformation is rare. However, if there are significant changes in lesion morphology or growth pattern in a short time, malignancy should be suspected for timely diagnosis and treatment.

• Dermoid cysts: Surgical excision is the best treatment, with very low recurrence rates. Although dermoid cysts are congenital benign lesions, rare cases of malignant transformation into squamous cell carcinoma have been reported, so prompt removal is recommended.

Can subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck be completely cured?

Yes, but recurrence is common.

Can subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck lead to other diseases?

Scarring may occur after surgery.

DIET & LIFESTYLE

What should patients with subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck pay attention to in their diet?

Daily diet is not affected, maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What should be paid attention to in life after surgery for subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck?

After surgery, check the wound dressing, regularly change the dressing at the outpatient clinic, and promptly address any exudate, redness, or suppuration of the wound.

PREVENTION

Can subcutaneous cysts in the head and neck be prevented?

Since the cause is unknown, there are currently no preventive measures. Seek medical attention promptly if discovered.