Dermoid Cyst vs Sebaceous Cyst - What is the Difference?

A dermoid cyst is a sac-like growth of normal tissue under the skin, usually present at birth. 

1. It is a bump or lump that may contain fluid, nerves, hair, bone, sweat glands, skin, or teeth. 
2. Dermoid cysts can develop anywhere on your body or even deeper inside the body. 
3. There are several types of dermoid cysts based on their location. The most common types include:
   1. Periorbital Dermoid Cyst: Forms near the outer edge of your left or right eyebrow.
   2. Ovarian Dermoid Cyst: Forms in or on your ovary.
   3. Spinal Dermoid Cyst: Forms on your spine.

Other rare types of dermoid cysts include:

1. Epibulbar (on the surface of your eye)
2. Intracranial (in your brain)
3. Nasal sinus (inside your nose)
4. Orbital (around the bones of your eye socket). 

Initially, a dermoid cyst may seem like a tumour. However, these cysts are usually harmless. You may need surgery to remove them as they do not resolve on their own. 

A sebaceous cyst is an atypical growth in your body containing liquid or semiliquid material. 

1. It is a yellow or white lump on your skin that is usually harmless and can develop at any age. 
2. This cyst originates from the sebaceous glands and can occur anywhere on the body (primarily on the face, neck, and torso) except your palms and soles. It does not develop in the palms and soles because there are no sebaceous glands present on your palms and soles. 
3. A sebaceous cyst can go away by itself, or you may need to get it treated. However, if left unchecked, it may become uncomfortable.

Dermoid and sebaceous cysts are two non-cancerous cysts that differ in terms of their origin, content, causes, and symptoms. 

Difference between Dermoid Cyst and Sebaceous Cyst based on the Origin

Difference between Dermoid cyst and Sebaceous Cyst based on the Content

Difference between Dermoid Cyst and Sebaceous Cyst based on Causes and Risk Factors

Difference between Dermoid Cyst and Sebaceous Cyst based on Diagnosis

Treatment of Dermoid Cyst

Surgical removal is the only treatment option for a dermoid cyst. The severity of the surgery depends on the type of cyst:

1. Periorbital Dermoid Cyst Surgery: The surgeon removes the cyst through a small incision to ensure as little scarring as possible. 
2. Ovarian Dermoid Cyst Surgery: The surgeon performs an ovarian cystectomy (a minimally invasive surgery) to remove only the cyst. However, if the cyst is large, they may also need to remove the ovary. 
3. Spinal Dermoid Cyst Surgery: The surgeon performs microsurgery (with a surgical microscope and precise instruments) while you are asleep from anaesthesia.

Treatment of Sebaceous Cyst

If the cyst is small and not bothersome, there is no need for treatment. However, if the cyst is large, inflamed, tender, or causes hair loss on the scalp, the doctor may drain or surgically remove it. Methods to remove a sebaceous cyst include:

1. Conventional Wide Excision: This method removes the cyst completely but leaves a long scar. 
2. Laser-aided Excision: The cyst is drained by making a small hole with a laser. 
3. Minimal Excision: The surgeon removes the cyst using a smaller incision to ensure minimal scarring. However, it carries a risk of the cyst returning.
4. Punch Excision: The surgeon removes the cyst and normal skin around it with a cookie-cutter-like punch tool.

While a dermoid cyst and a sebaceous cyst may seem similar, they are quite different. Knowing the difference between them is important to get them treated appropriately. In summary, the basic difference is their origin. A dermoid cyst is found in the dermis. On the other hand, a sebaceous cyst occurs due to excessive sebum secretion. 

If you experience the symptoms of a dermoid or sebaceous cyst mentioned above, you can consult with an HexaHealth expert TODAY! Our team of doctors will answer all your queries regarding your symptoms and causes. Furthermore, we will help you find the right hospital and surgeon for effective diagnosis and treatment.