Dr Lee May Have Extracted The Biggest Pillar Cyst She Has Ever Seen!

A pilar cyst, also known as a trichilemmal cyst, is a common type of benign (non-cancerous) skin cyst that develops from a hair follicle, typically on the scalp. These cysts are filled with keratin, a protein found in hair, nails, and skin. While generally harmless, they can become painful or infected if ruptured or irritated.

Key characteristics of pilar cysts:

Location:

Primarily found on the scalp, but can occur elsewhere on the body, including the face, neck, arms, and legs.
Appearance:

Usually smooth, firm, and mobile, appearing as a flesh-colored or reddish lump under the skin.
Size:

They can vary in size, from small to quite large (e.g., the size of a baseball).
Symptoms:

Generally painless, but can become painful if they rupture or become infected.
Rupture:

Can rupture spontaneously or due to trauma, causing inflammation and potential infection.
Familial tendency:

May have a genetic component, with some families experiencing multiple cysts.

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No treatment is usually necessary if asymptomatic.
Surgical removal: The most effective treatment, involves removing the cyst and its lining to prevent recurrence.
Incision and drainage: Smaller cysts may be drained through a small incision, but this method has a higher chance of recurrence.

Important considerations:

Do not attempt to squeeze or pop a pilar cyst. This can lead to infection and scarring.
Consult a healthcare professional: if the cyst becomes painful, infected, or if you are concerned about its appearance or growth.
Proliferating trichilemmal cysts: A rare, benign but locally aggressive form of pilar cyst that can ulcerate and may require more extensive treatment.