Steatoma (Synonyms: Sebaceous Cyst; Sebaceous Tumor; Wen.)
Describe steatoma.
Steatoma, or sebaceous cyst, appears as a variously-sized, elevated, rounded or semi-globular, soft or firm tumor, freely movable and painless, and having its seat in the corium or subcutaneous tissue. The overlying skin is normal in color, or it may be whitish or pale from distention; in some a gland-duct orifice may be seen, but, as a rule, this is absent.
What are the favorite regions for the development of steatoma?
The scalp, face and back. One or several may be present.
What is the course of sebaceous cysts?
Their growth is slow, and, after attaining a variable size, may remain stationary. They may exist indefinitely without causing any inconvenience beyond the disfigurement. Exceptionally, in enormously distended growths, suppuration and ulceration result.
What is the pathology?
A steatoma is a cyst of the sebaceous gland and duct, produced by retained secretion. The contents may be hard and friable, soft and cheesy, or even fluid, of a grayish, whitish or yellowish color, and with or without a fetid odor; the mass consisting of fat-drops, epidermic cells, cholesterin, and sometimes hairs.
Are sebaceous cysts likely to be confounded with gummata?
No. Gummata grow more rapidly, are usually painful to the touch, are not freely movable, and tend to break down and ulcerate.
Describe the treatment of steatoma.
A linear incision is made, and the mass and enveloping sac [Pg 44] dissected out. If the sac is permitted to remain, reproduction almost invariably takes place.