About this condition
An epidermoid cyst is usually a benign skin cyst that may appear as a round nodule beneath the surface. A lump cannot reliably be called an epidermoid cyst from its appearance alone, especially in a child.
What matters most
Epidermoid cysts are lined with skin-type cells and often grow slowly. They may remain unchanged for a long time or become uncomfortable if inflamed. Similar-looking lumps may have different origins, particularly at unusual anatomical sites.
Symptoms and reasons to seek care
A smooth local lump, gradual enlargement or a small surface opening may be noticed. Inflammation can cause tenderness, redness and warmth; occasionally material or pus drains from the area. Fever or spreading redness should not be dismissed as a harmless cyst.
How it differs from similar conditions
A dermoid cyst, other cutaneous cyst, lipoma or abscess can resemble an epidermoid cyst. A red painful swelling needs assessment for infection, and a growing deep mass needs a different evaluation from a stable superficial nodule.
Assessment and diagnosis
A clinician checks size, depth, mobility, skin changes and location. Additional imaging is selective when the diagnosis is uncertain or the lump is unusual. If an excision is indicated, examination of the removed tissue can establish the precise diagnosis.
Monitoring and treatment
A small symptom-free cyst may only need observation. Recurrent inflammation, pain or interference with daily activities may justify discussing removal with an appropriate specialist. Do not squeeze, pierce or attempt to drain a child’s cyst at home; an operation is not assumed available on the basis of this article.
When emergency help is needed
Rapidly expanding redness, severe pain, fever, spreading swelling or a child who becomes unwell calls for urgent medical assessment for an abscess or infection. If systemic illness is severe, seek emergency care through 103 or 112.
Related information
Atheroma in children; Lipoma beneath the skin; Skin moles and naevi.
Signs and symptoms
A smooth local lump, gradual enlargement or a small surface opening may be noticed. Inflammation can cause tenderness, redness and warmth; occasionally material or pus drains from the area. Fever or spreading redness should not be dismissed as a harmless cyst.
Diagnosis and tests
A clinician checks size, depth, mobility, skin changes and location. Additional imaging is selective when the diagnosis is uncertain or the lump is unusual. If an excision is indicated, examination of the removed tissue can establish the precise diagnosis.
Care and treatment approaches
A small symptom-free cyst may only need observation. Recurrent inflammation, pain or interference with daily activities may justify discussing removal with an appropriate specialist. Do not squeeze, pierce or attempt to drain a child’s cyst at home; an operation is not assumed available on the basis of this article.
When to seek urgent care
Rapidly expanding redness, severe pain, fever, spreading swelling or a child who becomes unwell calls for urgent medical assessment for an abscess or infection. If systemic illness is severe, seek emergency care through 103 or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is every round skin lump an epidermoid cyst?
No. Different cysts, lipomas and infections can look alike; a clinician must distinguish them.
Can a cyst be left alone?
A small symptom-free cyst may be observed, depending on location and diagnostic confidence.
Should I squeeze or puncture the lump?
No. This can introduce infection, increase inflammation and make later treatment more difficult.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
