Dermoid Cyst Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Dermoid cysts are benign tumors in the form of fluid-filled sacs that have been present since birth. These cysts can be found on the surface of the skin or other organs in the body such as in the brain, nose, ovaries, to the bone marrow.
The cyst can contain a variety of cells. For example hair, oil glands, sweat glands, nerves, even teeth. Cysts are generally 0.5–6 centimeters in size and feel hard lumps.
Symptom
Dermoid cysts most often appear on the face, especially the forehead area. The shape is a lump filled with fluid, the color of the skin around it. Generally, this type of cyst does not cause pain or any complaints.
Reason
Dermoid cysts have been present since birth. While the fetus is still in the womb, various cells in the body divide and multiply, including skin cells. Dermoid cysts occur when this process is disrupted. Disruption of this process causes the various cells that make up the skin to get stuck in one location and form a cyst.
Diagnosis
To determine the presence of dermoid cysts on the skin, the doctor only needs to examine the skin of the sufferer. A cyst biopsy can be done to confirm the contents of the tissue in the cyst, but this is rarely done.
If a dermoid cyst occurs in an internal organ (brain, eye, nose, ovary, etc.), then an X-ray, CT- scan, MRI, or ultrasound examination of the affected organ needs to be done.
Treatment
Not all cases of dermoid cysts must be treated. In general, dermoid cysts do not interfere with health at all. Dermoid cysts require special treatment if:
- Dermoid cysts are inflamed, characterized by pain and redness of the cyst
- Enlarged cyst
- Cyst changes color
- Considered disturbing appearance
Treatment for dermoid cysts is generally by surgical removal of the cyst. This action is a minor operation (simple surgery) and can generally be performed on an outpatient basis.
Prevention
There is nothing that can be done to prevent dermoid cysts from occurring.