epidermoid cyst (wen, infundibular cyst)
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Introduction
The most common cutaneous cyst, derived from epidermis or the epithelium of hair follicle. They are formed by a cystic enclosure that becomes filled with keratin & lipid-rich debris.
Epidemiology
- middle-aged adults
Pathology
- implanted epidermis grows within the dermis
- epidermal-like wall - stratified squamous epithelium with an apical granular layer
- keratin accumulates within the cyst & cysts fill with keratinaceous material
- often connected to surface by keratin-filled pores
* histopathology images[3]
Clinical manifestations
- lesion appears as a dermal nodule
- distribution: face, neck, upper arms, scrotum, trunk
- generally solitary lesions, but may be multiple
- 0.5 to 5 cm nodules
- cream-colored pasty content of cyst with odor of rancid cheese
- scrotal lesions may calcify
- because of their thin walls rupture is common
- inflammation may accompany rupture
Laboratory
- skin biopsy not necessary
Differential diagnosis
Management
More general terms
More specific terms
References
- ↑ Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, Common and Serious Diseases, 3rd ed, Fitzpatrick et al, McGraw Hill, NY, 1997, pg 162
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 Medical Knowledge Self Assessment Program (MKSAP) 18, American College of Physicians, Philadelphia 2018
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Fromm LJ, Elston DM (images) Medscape: Epidermal Inclusion Cyst http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1061582-overview
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 DermNet NZ. Cysts (images) http://dermnetnz.org/lesions/cysts.html