Sexually Transmitted Diseases - I. I. Mavrov 2005

Non-Venereal Inflammatory Diseases of the Reproductive Organs
Sebaceous Cyst of the External Genitalia

A sebaceous gland cyst of the external genitalia is a neoplasm. It develops from the mature pilosebaceous unit and has a tendency toward inflammation. It is located in the scrotal region in men and the Labia Majora in women (see insert XVI, 5). It occurs more frequently at a mature age.

Such cysts are sebaceous-epidermal, often multiple, and of retention origin. They are located intradermally or subcutaneously. These are tumor-like formations of a round or elongated shape (resembling a nodule) with a diameter of 1.5–5 cm or more. The Skin covering the cyst may be elevated or stretched by it, but generally retains its normal color. Hyperemia of the skin overlying the cyst is observed in cases of inflammation.

The content of such cysts is opalescent, consisting of a paste-like fatty mass with Cholesterol crystals, and is composed of keratinized epidermal Cells that form the inner lining of these cysts. Depending on its appearance, the content may be honey-, sebum-, or cholesterol-like, as well as oily.

Diagnostics. Pathohistological examination reveals a capsule lined with continuous epidermis and containing sebaceous gland secretion products.

Differential Diagnosis. A sebaceous gland cyst should be differentiated from a dermoid cyst, dermatofibroma, Lipoma, furuncle, liquefactive tuberculosis, and basal Cell carcinoma.

Treatment. The cyst is removed surgically by enucleation of the sebaceous gland sac. Treatment may also involve the removal of cyst elements using electroexcision or cryodestruction.



Last update: 10/08/2026

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