A pilar cyst, also known as a trichilemmal or isthmus-catagen cyst, is a benign (non-life-threatening) growth that, upon examination, looks identical to the more common epidermoid cyst, except that 90% of pilar cysts occur on the scalp. They tend to be more mobile and firmer than epidermoid cysts, and are derived from a different part of the hair follicle. The internal contents tend to be more "homogenous" and smooth. It is not uncommon to have multiple pilar cysts on the scalp and for the condition to run in families. Treatment is generally only for cosmetic reasons and excision with removal of the cyst and its contents is curative. The nice thing about these cysts is that they are often thicker-walled, so they can often be "popped" out whole, which not only ensures that I've removed it completely, but also leads to an extremely satisfying “pop!”
Up Next in Oozy Offerings
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A Linguini Noodle Pilar Cyst
A *good* squeeze of this cute little pilar cyst gave us a perfect Linguini Noodle! Do you prefer the squeeze or when they come out whole?
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Curette & Punch That Cyst!
An epidermoid cyst (Epidermal Inclusion cyst, Infundibular cyst), is a benign growth commonly found in the skin and typically appears on the face, neck or trunk, but can occur anywhere on the body. Another name used is “sebacous cyst” but this is actually an antiquated misnomer, and is not a te...
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The Cyst Bomb
Taking out this cyst was like disarming a bomb! At first I was convinced it was a lipoma BUT it's actually a gigantic, thin wall epidermoid cyst. Stay til the end to see what's inside!
An epidermoid cyst is a non-cancerous growth commonly found on the skin of the face or neck, but can occur anyw...
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