Trichylemmal cysts, or pilar cysts, are benign growths that form in hair follicles and can be removed by a dermatologist. In rare cases, they can become malignant, so removal is often recommended. Some families have a genetic predisposition to these cysts.
A trichylemmal cyst, also known as a pilar cyst, is a growth that forms in a hair follicle, causing it to become engorged with fluid. These growths are usually benign, but a doctor might recommend removal if they cause pain or distress, because they are sometimes unpleasant to look at and tender to the touch. The removal can be done in a clinic on an outpatient basis and does not take much time, especially if the dermatologist is experienced.
Trichilemmal cysts form thickened walls and swell under the skin’s surface over time. They can appear anywhere on the body and are especially common around the head and neck. A dermatologist can conduct a quick exam to determine the nature of the growth and may recommend removal. Sometimes the trichylemmal cyst is mistaken for a malignant tumor, in which case your doctor may order a biopsy to check the contents of the cyst.
To remove a trichylemmal cyst, the dermatologist typically administers a local anesthetic for the patient’s comfort and removes the entire cyst. Some may drain the growth first and then extract the shell of the cyst. Your doctor may order a biopsy to be sure if they have concerns about malignancy. Patients often need anti-inflammatory medication after the procedure to deal with swelling and any residual inflammation left by the cyst.
In about 2% of cases, a trichylemmal cyst can become malignant. These growths could include a proliferation of cells that can spread to nearby tissues. For this reason, doctors often recommend removal even if a cyst doesn’t appear to be a problem, to prevent a cancerous growth from developing. A patient who has a history of trichilemmal cysts should be sure to bring it up if they go to the doctor to discuss a skin problem, because this could provide an important diagnostic clue.
Some families appear to have a genetic predisposition to trichylemmal cyst formation. Members of such families may want to watch out for early signs of cyst formation so they can get prompt treatment. It may also be helpful to note family history in patient records to make physicians aware of a patient’s increased risk of cysts. This can be helpful when the doctor is examining a patient who has a growth that appears to be ambiguous in nature; if the patient’s family often develops trichilemmal cysts, the doctor might logically assume that this is the most likely explanation for the growth.
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