The likelihood of sebaceous cysts turning cancerous

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on April 11, 2025
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Sebaceous cysts are localized hypersecretion of sebaceous glands that form benign proliferations on the skin surface after mixing with bacterial infections. They generally form a sac under the skin containing tofu-dreg-like substances. Sebaceous cysts do not become malignant, and clinically, these diseases almost have no possibility of malignancy. Once discovered, it is essential to first get a diagnosis and then treatment at the dermatology department of a standard hospital. The most common treatment method is surgery to directly remove the tofu-dreg-like substances and the sac. If left untreated, the cyst may grow larger or rupture, leading to re-infection, which can be problematic.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What department should I go to for a sebaceous cyst?

Sebaceous cysts are a type of benign proliferation related to robust sebaceous gland secretion or internal inflammation. The standard treatment usually involves visiting a dermatology department at a formal hospital, although a general surgery department can also handle it. After discovering the cyst, one should visit these departments for a checkup. Once diagnosed, a minor surgical procedure can remove it. Generally, oral and topical medications are ineffective for sebaceous cysts. After recovery, it is crucial to regulate one's diet and lifestyle. Avoid spicy and stimulating foods, refrain from staying up late, ideally do not keep small pets at home, and engage in regular exercise. Sweating more and taking frequent baths can effectively prevent the occurrence or recurrence of this condition.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can sebaceous cysts be ignored?

Sebaceous cysts are a type of benign proliferation that forms in areas of the skin where sebaceous glands are particularly active, containing a tofu-dreg-like substance encased in a cyst. Without treatment, they may gradually increase in size and can become painful or even rupture, leading to bacterial infection. It is generally advisable to seek treatment upon detection of such a condition. One can visit the dermatology department of a standard hospital for a minor surgery to remove both the tofu-dreg-like substance and the cyst, which can be curative. It is also important to maintain a proper diet and lifestyle habits, avoid spicy and irritating foods, refrain from staying up late, bathe frequently, and exercise regularly to potentially prevent recurrence of the condition.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Do sebaceous cysts hurt?

Most sebaceous cysts generally do not show obvious symptoms and do not cause pain. However, if the sebaceous glands grow and enlarge gradually, they will become painful, especially during squeezing or friction, which intensifies the pain. Once this condition is detected, it is best to go to a regular hospital's dermatology department where a doctor can perform minor surgery to completely remove the tofu-dregs-like substances and the cyst, thereby achieving a thorough cure. Regularly, one should standardize their diet and lifestyle habits, avoid spicy and irritating food, avoid staying up late, avoid anxiety, and refrain from bathing or swimming in public baths. It is also advisable not to keep small animals at home and to frequently sunbathe and sanitize bed linens and quilt covers.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Will a sebaceous cyst go away on its own?

Once a sebaceous cyst forms, it will not disappear on its own. It will slowly grow larger, may cause pain, and could rupture, leading to secondary infections. Once diagnosed, it is recommended to have a minor surgery at a dermatology department of a formal hospital to completely remove it. This condition can recur, so after treatment, it is important to regulate diet and lifestyle. Avoid spicy, stimulating, greasy, or sweet foods. Try to avoid staying up late, anxiety, and stress. Do not use public baths or swimming pools. Regularly exercise, bathe more often, avoid keeping small pets, and ensure that clothing, bedsheets, and duvet covers are sun-dried and disinfected.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What medicine should be applied for a sebaceous cyst?

Sebaceous cysts are benign proliferations that form under the skin due to the hypersecretion of sebaceous glands. These are also somewhat related to inflammation within the body, forming a sac filled with a tofu-like substance. This condition generally does not respond to oral or topical medications, so there is no need for topical drug treatment. The most common approach is to undergo a minor surgery at a dermatology department in a formal hospital, where the cyst and the substance inside are completely removed, achieving a cure. After recovery, it is crucial to maintain a proper diet and lifestyle, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, refrain from staying up late, and avoid public baths, swimming, and keeping pets at home.