Skin Growths and Cysts in Peoria, AZ
Skin growths or cysts can happen to people of all ages, especially adults and seniors. A dermatologist can help diagnose and treat common skin growths and cysts.
What Is a Cyst?
A cyst is an area of tissue that has been filled with fluid, keratin, or other substances. Cysts are usually benign.
Different Types of Skin Growths
There are many types of skin growths, including:
- Skin tags, which are small growths of skin developing in areas where skin rubs together
- Warts, which are caused by skin contact with the human papillomavirus
- Dermatofibroma, which is a small reddish brown bump usually developing on the legs
- Lipoma, which is a round, moveable bump under the skin
- Cherry hemangioma, which is a small, usually benign, bright red spot
- Keratosis pilaris, which develops when keratin plugs up a hair follicle
- Moles, which are clumps of melanocytes
- Seborrheic keratosis, which is characterized by thick, waxy, or scaly bumps
When To Be Concerned About a Skin Growth or Cyst
You should visit your dermatologist if you have a cyst that is painful, swollen, or red, or if the cyst is in a highly visible area and you want it removed. If you have a skin growth that is changing in size, color, or shape, it could be a sign of skin cancer. If you are unsure about your skin growth, it’s best to seek out the expertise of your dermatologist.
Skin Growth or Cyst Removal Options
Your dermatologist has several effective treatments for skin growths or cysts. Treatment options will vary, depending on the type of skin growth or cyst. Common treatments include:
- Medications, to reduce the size of the cyst or growth
- Draining a cyst using a small needle
- Excision of a cyst or skin growth using a surgical tool
- Cryotherapy, to freeze the skin growth
- Curettage, to scrape the skin growth
