Is It a Cyst or Something Else? How to Find Out

Discovering a lump or bump under your skin can be concerning, especially when you are unsure what it is or whether it requires medical attention. While many skin growths are harmless cysts, others may be infections, lipomas, swollen lymph nodes, or even forms of skin cancer. Knowing the difference is important for protecting your health and determining whether treatment may be necessary.

At Kayal Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists in Marietta, GA, we help patients identify and treat a wide range of skin conditions, including cysts and other abnormal skin growths.

What Is a Cyst?

A cyst is a closed sac or pocket beneath the skin that is typically filled with fluid, keratin, oil, or other material. Cysts can develop almost anywhere on the body and are very common in adults of all ages.

Many cysts grow slowly and are noncancerous, but some may become inflamed, painful, infected, or cosmetically bothersome over time.

Common Types of Skin Cysts

There are several different types of cysts that can form under the skin, and each may appear slightly differently.

Epidermoid Cysts

Epidermoid cysts are among the most common skin cysts. These small, round bumps typically form beneath the skin and may contain keratin, a protein found in skin and hair.

They often appear on the face, neck, chest, scalp, or back and may feel soft or firm to the touch.

Pilar Cysts

Pilar cysts commonly develop on the scalp and arise from hair follicles. They are usually smooth, firm, and slow-growing.

Sebaceous Cysts

Although many people use the term “sebaceous cyst” broadly, true sebaceous cysts are less common and arise from the skin’s oil-producing glands.

Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that typically develop near joints or tendons, especially around the wrists or hands.

Could It Be Something Other Than a Cyst?

Not every lump under the skin is a cyst. Other skin conditions and growths can appear similar and may require different treatment approaches. Conditions that can sometimes be mistaken for cysts include:

• Lipomas (fatty growths beneath the skin)
• Abscesses or infections
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Ingrown hairs
• Benign skin tumors
• Skin cancer lesions

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. While many bumps are harmless, any new or changing skin growth should be evaluated if it changes in size, color, texture, or becomes painful.

You Should Have a Skin Lump Evaluated

It is important to seek professional evaluation if a lump or bump:

• Rapidly increases in size
• Becomes painful or inflamed
• Drains fluid or pus
• Changes color or shape
• Feels hard or fixed in place
• Repeatedly returns after draining
• Interferes with daily activities
• Causes cosmetic concerns

In some cases, imaging, biopsy, or removal may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.

How Dermatologists Diagnose Skin Growths

At Kayal Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists, our team carefully evaluates skin growths using clinical examination and advanced dermatologic expertise. Determining whether a growth is a cyst or another condition often depends on its appearance, location, texture, and symptoms.

Some cysts can simply be monitored, while others may require treatment due to discomfort, infection risk, or cosmetic reasons. Treatment options may include:

• Observation
• Steroid injections
• Drainage procedures
• Surgical removal
• Skin cancer evaluation and biopsy when necessary

Schedule an Evaluation in Marietta, GA

If you have discovered a lump, bump, or cyst-like growth under your skin, it is important not to ignore it or attempt to treat it yourself. A professional dermatologic evaluation can help determine whether it is a harmless cyst or a condition requiring further treatment.

Kayal Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists proudly serves patients in Marietta, GA, with expert care for cysts, skin growths, and skin cancer concerns.

Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and receive a professional evaluation for your skin health concerns.