Sebaceous Cyst Flashcards
Zhi Liu
What is a cyst?
A cyst is a pathological product due to the accumulation of blood, phlegm-fluid, or turbid Qi in the superficial portion of the body
In Western Med, what is a cystic neoplasm due to?
It is due to the sebum accumulation in the sebaceous glands.
What is the most effective treatment for a cystic neoplasm in Western Med?
The most effective treatment is surgery.
What is a common skin disease also known as Lipoma?
A common skin disease also known as Lipoma or fat cyst in traditional Chinese medicine.
What causes the formation of cysts in the skin?
It is mainly caused by internal accumulation of damp-heat or phlegm and dampness blocking leading to the overflow of fat fluid and accumulation of fat
What leads to the overflow of fat fluid in the skin?
The internal accumulation of damp heat or phlegm and dampness blocking leads to the overflow of fat fluid to form the cyst
What is the result of the overflow of fat fluid in the skin?
The result is the accumulation of fat in the skin to form cysts.
What is the differentiation of cysts in TCM?
Sebaceous cysts- contain phlegm-dampness
Varicose veins- contain blood stasis
Where do cysts generally occur?
Cysts generally occur on the head, face, behind the ears, back of the neck, back, or hips where sebaceous glands are rich.
What are the characteristics of cysts?
Cysts are round, sizes vary from bean to orange, soft, and have a clear margin.
Where are cysts located in relation to the skin?
Cysts are located on the first layer under the skin and are not adhesive to the deep tissues.
How do cysts behave in relation to the skin?
Cysts are movable at the root but only attacehes the skin’s superficial layers.
What is a notable feature of cysts when pressure is applied?
There is a small spot which is bluish-black in color from where fat-like fluid with a foul smell oozes out with pressure.
How do cysts grow and what complications can arise?
Cysts grow slowly and cause no discomfort, but can become red and swollen due to secondary infection.
What is the etiology and pathogenesis of Sebaceous Cysts?
Phlegm-dampness accumulation
What are the main points to treat sebaceous cysts?
LI-11: Clears whole body’s heat + dampness
SP-9: Resolves dampness
LR-3: Soothes LR Qi + Regulates Qi
LI-4: Clear heat, reduce swelling + relieving pain
ST-36: Strengthens SP + ST + Dries damp
ST-40: Dispels damp-phlegm blockages
*Additional points for treatment will be based on the patient’s specific constitution and the location and size of the lipoma
ie: LR Qi Stagnation, use LR-13 + LR-14
What is the treatment principle of lipoma?
Clear heat and dampness
Resolve phlegm
Disperse nodules
*By using the patient’s Qi + Blood + digestive (SP+ST) + metabolism system to rid of pathological evils in body
What treatments may be combined with acupuncture for lipoma patients?
Cupping and bloodletting.
What dietary considerations should lipoma patients follow during treatment?
They should pay attention to a light diet and avoid spicy and greasy foods to prevent aggravating symptoms.
How does one resolve dampness, blood stasis, phlegm, or clear heat to expel these evils?
By regulating body metabolism (SP/ST/LI/SI) through urination, bowel movements, or sweating
