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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Does A Swollen Cyst On Back Indicate?

Hi my friend has had a pimple like swelling on her back for some years now its basically under the skin not easy to tell it has a tiny black hole in it. i tried squeezing it out a year ago it produced some foul smelly string like puss. However its still there and another has occured afew inches from the first
Tue, 11 Oct 2016
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Dermatologist,  's  Response
Hi and welcome to HCM
Your friend seems to have developed a sebaceous cyst, or a swelling of the oil glands in the skin when the opening is blocked.
The oil collects inside, and can be very foul smelling. It needs to be drained by the doctor to make sure it is fully unblocked and drained. larger ones may need to be opened and the swollen sac of oil removed, or it will keep coming back.
In case it is large, red or painful and seems infected, you may need antibiotics as well along with surgical draining of the cyst. Antibiotics and steroid cream may be given prior to draining it, to reduce infection and inflammation.
Do consult a dermatologist/surgeon regarding required treatment to prevent any further recurrence of the cyst.
There are certain laser methods as well that may be advised after observing the present condition of the cyst. They leave lesser scarring.
In the meantime, softening it with heat compresses and applying tea tree oil or anti acne soap can help reduce infection and size. Do not try opening or puncturing it at home.
Hope this helps.
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What Does A Swollen Cyst On Back Indicate?

Hi and welcome to HCM Your friend seems to have developed a sebaceous cyst, or a swelling of the oil glands in the skin when the opening is blocked. The oil collects inside, and can be very foul smelling. It needs to be drained by the doctor to make sure it is fully unblocked and drained. larger ones may need to be opened and the swollen sac of oil removed, or it will keep coming back. In case it is large, red or painful and seems infected, you may need antibiotics as well along with surgical draining of the cyst. Antibiotics and steroid cream may be given prior to draining it, to reduce infection and inflammation. Do consult a dermatologist/surgeon regarding required treatment to prevent any further recurrence of the cyst. There are certain laser methods as well that may be advised after observing the present condition of the cyst. They leave lesser scarring. In the meantime, softening it with heat compresses and applying tea tree oil or anti acne soap can help reduce infection and size. Do not try opening or puncturing it at home. Hope this helps.