Khobragade Multispeciality Hospital

What is a Dermoid Cyst?

A dermoid cyst is a type of benign (non-cancerous) growth that forms when skin and skin structures become trapped during fetal development. These cysts contain tissues such as hair follicles, skin glands, and sometimes teeth or other structures. They are present at birth (congenital) but may not be noticed until later in life. Dermoid cysts commonly occur on the face, scalp, ovaries, or along the spinal cord.
Dermoid cysts are benign but can lead to discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or complications if untreated. Surgical removal is the definitive treatment, offering excellent outcomes. Consult your healthcare provider or specialist surgeon for early evaluation and management if you notice a persistent lump or experience related symptoms.
Dermoid Cyst

Symptoms of Dermoid Cyst

  • A small, painless lump under the skin
  • Firm and movable swelling
  • Skin-coloured or yellowish mass
  • Slow-growing in size
  • If infected, redness, tenderness, or pain
  • On ovaries: abdominal pain, pelvic discomfort, bloating, or irregular periods
  • In rare spinal dermoid cysts: neurological symptoms like weakness or bladder/bowel issues

Procedure or Treatment for Dermoid Cyst

Treatment mainly involves surgical removal of the cyst to prevent complications such as infection, rupture, or cosmetic concerns. The procedure depends on the cyst’s location:

  1. Preoperative Evaluation – Includes physical examination, ultrasound, CT, or MRI to assess size, location, and surrounding structures.

  2. Surgical Removal (Excision) – Performed under local or general anesthesia. The cyst is carefully excised along with its lining to prevent recurrence.

  3. Recovery – Most patients recover quickly, with minimal pain managed by medication. Sutures may be removed within a week, and normal activities resume within a few days unless deeper surgery is involved (e.g., ovarian or spinal cysts).

  4. Ovarian Dermoid Cyst Removal – Done via laparoscopy or laparotomy depending on cyst size and complications like torsion or rupture.

Prevention of Dermoid Cyst

Since dermoid cysts are congenital, there are no proven prevention methods. However, early detection and timely surgical removal prevent complications like:

  • Infection
  • Rupture causing inflammation or abscess
  • Ovarian torsion in ovarian dermoid cysts
  • Neurological issues in spinal dermoid cysts

Benefits of Dermoid Cyst Removal

  • Relief from discomfort or pain
  • Improved cosmetic appearance, especially for facial or scalp cysts
  • Prevention of infection or rupture
  • Reduced risk of complications such as ovarian torsion
  • Peace of mind knowing the mass is benign and fully removed

Types of Dermoid Cysts

  1. Cutaneous Dermoid Cyst

    • Found on face, scalp, or neck

    • Usually superficial and easily removable

  2. Ovarian Dermoid Cyst (Mature Cystic Teratoma)

    • Common ovarian tumour in women of reproductive age

    • Contains hair, teeth, fat, or skin glands

    • May cause abdominal pain, torsion, or rupture

  3. Spinal Dermoid Cyst

    • Rare, located along the spinal cord

    • May cause neurological symptoms if compressing nerves

  4. Orbital Dermoid Cyst

    • Located near the eye or eyebrow

    • Can cause swelling, displacement of the eye, or vision issues if large

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