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Overview
Cysts can become infected.
Don't squeeze.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayRed, hot, painful lump.
See a doctor soonGrowing cyst.
Causes
Caused by blocked skin.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause round lump under the skin, sometimes with a small hole. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Skin cyst (epidermoid cyst)Often treated at home
A round, firm lump under the skin, often with a tiny dark opening in the center.
What you can do at home
- Warm compresses if inflamed.
Medicines
Removal.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Changes
The exam
A skin exam.
Tests
- None
Prevention
Don't squeeze.
- Leave it alone
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.