What’s Causing This Cyst?

A cyst is a small pocket of tissue often filled with fluid or pus. It can occur due to an injury, infection, or other issues. They’re usually benign but may need treatment for complications.

Cysts can vary in appearance depending on their type and location. Here are 11 types of cysts.

Epidermoid cyst

Epidermoid cysts are small, benign bumps filled with keratin. Kertain is a protein that’s essential in forming your skin, hair, and nails. Epidermoid cysts occur when something blocks hair follicles, and skin cells build up beneath this blockage.

These cysts can look like a skin-colored, tan, or yellowish bump filled with thick material. They typically occurTrusted Source on your face, neck, or torso, but can occur across your body.

In rare cases, epidermoid cysts can be caused by an inherited condition called Gardner syndrome.

Read more about epidermoid cysts.

Sebaceous cyst

Sebaceous cysts are filled with sebum and are less common than epidermoid cysts. They often form within sebaceous glands, which are part of your skin and hair follicles. Sebaceous glands make oil for your skin and hair.

These cysts most commonly occur on your face, neck, or torso, and are often the result of damage to sebaceous glands.

Read more about sebaceous cysts.

Breast cyst

Benign cysts can develop when fluid collects near your breast glands. They can cause pain or tenderness in the affected area.