Pilar cysts are common skin bumps, commonly found on the scalp. The spelling of the word "Pilar" is derived from the Latin word "pilus" which means hair. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /pɪˈlɑr sɪsts/, which includes the short i sound in "pi," and the long a sound in "lar." The final "s" in "cysts" is pronounced as a "z" sound. Pilar cysts can be easily treated by a dermatologist, but they often require surgical removal.
Pilar cysts, also known as trichilemmal cysts or wen, are benign skin growths that commonly occur on the scalp. These cysts typically develop from hair follicles and are filled with keratin, a proteinaceous material found in skin, nails, and hair. They are usually round or oval in shape and are smooth to touch.
Pilar cysts are usually painless and may gradually increase in size over time. They are often small, ranging from a few millimeters to a centimeter in diameter, but can occasionally grow larger. The exact cause of pilar cyst formation is not fully understood, but they are believed to have a genetic predisposition and can run in families.
These cysts can be easily diagnosed based on their appearance and location on the scalp. They are typically firm to the touch and have a characteristic "dome-shaped" appearance. Pilar cysts may be asymptomatic, but in some cases, they can cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns due to their size or location.
While pilar cysts are generally harmless, they may occasionally become infected, leading to redness, pain, or swelling. In such cases, medical attention may be required to prevent the spread of infection.
Treatment for pilar cysts typically involves surgically removing the cysts, which usually provides a permanent solution. However, in some instances, the cysts may recur, requiring additional surgical intervention.
Overall, pilar cysts are benign growths on the scalp that are filled with keratin. They are generally harmless but can lead to discomfort or cosmetic issues. Prompt medical attention is necessary if signs of infection occur, and surgical removal is often the recommended treatment.
The term "pilar cysts" is derived from both the anatomical location and the medical terminology associated with these types of cysts.
The word "pilar" is derived from the Latin word "pilus", which means "hair". Pilar cysts, also known as trichilemmal cysts, originate from the outer root sheath cells of a hair follicle. These cysts develop when the hair follicle becomes blocked or damaged, leading to the accumulation of keratin, a protein that forms hair and nails.
The term "cyst" is derived from the Greek word "kystis", meaning "bladder" or "sac". In medical terminology, a cyst refers to a closed sac-like structure that contains fluid, gas, or solid material. In the case of pilar cysts, the sac is filled with keratin.