Complications

Potential complications of epidermoid cysts include:

• Inflammation. An epidermoid cyst can become tender and swollen, even if it's not infected. An inflamed cyst is difficult to remove. Your doctor is likely to postpone removing it until the inflammation subsides.
• Rupture. A ruptured cyst often leads to a boil-like infection that requires prompt treatment.
• Infection. Cysts can become infected and painful (abscessed).
• Skin cancer. In very rare cases, epidermoid cysts can lead to skin cancer.