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How does traditional Chinese medicine treat epidermoid cysts?

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In traditional Chinese medicine, sebaceous cysts can be treated with fire needles to open them. For cysts larger than 0.5 cm, after sterilizing a micro-reverse selection needle knife, it is used to puncture the skin under local anesthesia, slightly opening the surface. Then, by applying firm pressure and massage, the contents inside are squeezed out, followed by local cleaning, disinfection, and dressing. In traditional Chinese medicine, sebaceous cysts fall within the category of phlegm nodules, which result from abnormalities in the body's qi, blood, and body fluids. Ren Shen Jian Pi Wan (Ginseng Spleen-Strengthening Pills) is particularly effective in regulating the body's qi, blood, and body fluids.

Sebaceous cysts are benign tumors that generally do not undergo malignant transformation. However, some cysts may not only affect appearance but also cause symptoms such as pain, redness, swelling, and pus formation. Early detection and treatment are recommended. So how does traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treat sebaceous cysts?

How does TCM treat sebaceous cysts?

In TCM, sebaceous cysts can be treated using fire needle therapy. For cysts larger than 0.5 cm, after disinfection with a micro-needle knife, local anesthesia is administered and the skin is slightly incised. Firm pressure and massage are then applied to squeeze out the contents, followed by local cleaning, disinfection, and dressing. In TCM theory, sebaceous cysts fall under the category of "phlegm nodules," caused by abnormalities in qi, blood, and body fluids. Ren Shen Jian Pi Wan (Ginseng Spleen-Strengthening Pills) helps regulate the flow of qi, blood, and body fluids, eliminate damp-phlegm, and gradually reduce and ultimately resolve the cyst.

Medically, sebaceous cysts refer to benign growths such as sebaceous cysts or sebaceous gland tumors. They occur when the excretory duct of a sebaceous gland becomes blocked, preventing timely discharge of secretions. This causes the sebaceous gland's epithelium to expand into a retention cyst. Their growth rate is usually very slow. The contents are typically white, curd-like material, which may develop a distinctive odor if infected or inflamed. Sebaceous cysts can occur at any age but are more common in young adults and individuals with oily skin. Common sites include the head, face, neck, and back.

Most cysts appear as slightly bluish, firm, well-defined, smooth-surfaced lumps protruding from the skin, typically without noticeable symptoms. If infection occurs, abscess formation may develop, presenting as local redness, swelling, pain, and increased skin temperature. We hope this information is helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness.

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