CUTANEOUS CYST Meaning and
Definition
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A cutaneous cyst is a fluid-filled sac or cavity that develops within the layers of the skin, typically under the epidermis. These cysts are also referred to as epidermoid or sebaceous cysts, and they form when the cells that produce keratin (a protein that makes up the outer layer of the skin) become trapped beneath the surface.
Cutaneous cysts are usually benign and noncancerous, developing gradually over time. They can vary in size and may range from a small pea-sized bump to a larger, noticeable lump on the skin. These cysts often appear on parts of the body where hair follicles are present, such as the face, neck, scalp, or trunk, but they can occur anywhere on the skin.
The exact cause of cutaneous cysts is not fully understood, but they are commonly associated with blockages or damage to hair follicles or sweat glands that prevent the natural flow of oils and dead skin cells. Sometimes, trauma to the skin or an underlying genetic predisposition may also contribute to their development.
Although most cutaneous cysts are harmless and do not require treatment, they can occasionally become inflamed, infected, or cause discomfort. In such cases, medical intervention may be necessary, which may involve draining the cyst, taking antibiotics, or surgically removing it.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss the best course of action for managing or treating a cutaneous cyst.
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Cuticular c., any c. of the skin; dermoid c.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CUTANEOUS CYST
- xutaneous cyst
- vutaneous cyst
- futaneous cyst
- dutaneous cyst
- cytaneous cyst
- chtaneous cyst
- cjtaneous cyst
- citaneous cyst
- c8taneous cyst
- c7taneous cyst
- curaneous cyst
- cufaneous cyst
- cuganeous cyst
- cuyaneous cyst
- cu6aneous cyst
- cu5aneous cyst
- cutzneous cyst
- cutsneous cyst
- cutwneous cyst
- cutqneous cyst
Etymology of CUTANEOUS CYST
The word "cutaneous cyst" is composed of two components: "cutaneous" and "cyst".
1. Cutaneous: The term "cutaneous" is derived from the Latin word "cutaneus", which means "pertaining to the skin". It ultimately comes from the Latin word "cutis", meaning "skin".
2. Cyst: The word "cyst" originates from the Greek word "kystis", meaning "bladder" or "pouch". In medical terminology, a cyst refers to a closed sac or pouch-like structure filled with fluid, air, or semi-solid material.
Therefore, the etymology of "cutaneous cyst" breaks down to "cutaneous" meaning "skin" and "cyst" indicating a "bladder-like sac". It is used to describe cystic formations within or under the skin.
