An epidermal inclusion cyst (often called a sebaceous cyst) is a benign, slow-growing lump forming beneath the skin. These cysts originate from the hair follicle or skin and are small sacs filled with keratin, a protein found in skin and hair. The closed pocket accumulates dead skin cells and debris, creating the bump. When the cyst wall ruptures, either spontaneously or via medical incision, the built-in contents are released, leading to drainage.
Factors Determining Drainage Duration
The length of time a cyst actively drains varies significantly, generally lasting from a few days to approximately two weeks. Duration depends heavily on the volume of material inside the cyst and the mechanism by which it opened. Larger cysts, which accumulate more keratin and cellular debris, require a longer period to completely empty their contents.
The way the cyst opens also influences the drainage timeline. A cyst professionally incised and drained typically heals faster than one that ruptures spontaneously and irregularly. Medical drainage allows for a controlled release, leading to a more efficient emptying of the sac. If the cyst wall is only partially emptied, drainage may temporarily stop and then restart as more material is expelled, extending the overall process.
The presence of an underlying infection can significantly prolong the drainage period. An inflamed or infected cyst may develop into an abscess, causing the body to expel pus and inflammatory fluids in addition to the normal cyst contents. This expulsion of infectious material and the subsequent inflammatory response causes drainage to continue for a longer period while the body works to clear the site.
What Normal Cyst Discharge Looks Like
The material released from a draining cyst has a characteristic appearance. The discharge is primarily composed of keratin, giving it a thick, pasty, or cheesy consistency. Its color ranges from whitish-gray to yellowish, reflecting the accumulation of dead skin cells and lipids.
A common feature of this discharge is a foul or rancid odor. This odor results from the breakdown of keratin and cellular debris within the closed sac, not necessarily from a bacterial infection. Recognizing this strong smell is a normal byproduct of the cyst’s contents can help alleviate anxiety. However, discharge that is thick, discolored pus or bright red blood may indicate a more complicated issue.
Essential Home Care During Drainage
Proper home care is necessary while a cyst is draining to prevent secondary infection and encourage efficient healing. Keep the area clean by gently washing the skin around the draining site with mild soap and warm water multiple times a day. This removes discharged material and keeps the opening clear without irritating the surrounding tissue.
Protecting the draining site is crucial for healing and preventing contamination.
- Cover the draining site with a clean, sterile gauze or a fresh bandage.
- Change the dressing frequently as it becomes soiled to protect the open area from contaminants.
- Apply a warm compress to the area several times a day.
- Use the warm compress to help soften the contents and promote continued drainage.
Resist the urge to squeeze, pick at, or forcefully express contents from the cyst. Manually manipulating the area can push bacteria deeper into the wound, increase the risk of infection, and cause tissue damage. Allowing the discharge to flow naturally is the safest way to manage the draining cyst at home.
Recognizing When Drainage Requires a Doctor
While most draining cysts can be managed at home, certain warning signs indicate professional medical intervention is necessary. If drainage persists continuously for more than two weeks, or if the lump immediately reforms, the cyst wall or sac may not have been fully emptied. A doctor can evaluate whether the residual sac needs surgical removal to prevent recurrence.
Signs of an escalating infection require prompt medical attention. These include fever or chills, suggesting a systemic infection, or spreading redness, warmth, and increasing pain around the draining site. Consult a healthcare provider if the discharge changes significantly to thick pus, if the pain becomes unbearable, or if red streaking appears leading away from the cyst.