Global InformationSteatocystoma multiplex information
| Steatocystoma multiplex | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Epidermal polycystic disease and Sebocystomatosis[1]: 781 |
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| Specialty | Dermatology  |
Steatocystoma multiplex, is a benign, autosomal dominant congenital condition resulting in multiple cysts on a person's body. Steatocystoma simplex is the solitary counterpart to steatocystoma multiplex.[2]
In steatocystoma multiplex, the tendency to develop cysts is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion, so one parent can be expected to also have steatocystoma multiplex. It may also occur sporadically. Both males and females may be affected.
The onset at puberty is presumably due to hormonal stimulus of the pilosebaceous unit. They most often arise on the chest and may also occur on the abdomen, upper arms, armpits and face. In some cases cysts may develop all over the body.
The cysts are mostly small (2–20 mm) but they may be several centimetres in diameter. They tend to be soft to firm semi-translucent bumps, and contain an oily, yellow liquid. Sometimes a small central punctum can be identified and they may contain one or more hairs (eruptive vellus hair cysts). They may become inflamed and heal with scarring, like acne nodules (see nodulocystic acne and hidradenitis suppurativa).
On inflammation they can become incredibly painful and reach sizes between 4-6cm in diameter. The area around the cyst can become red and painful to the touch; making mobility, sitting, strenuous movement or everyday activities very difficult and painful.
Steatocystomas are thought to come from an abnormal lining of the passageway to the oil glands (sebaceous duct).
Localised, generalised, facial, acral, and suppurative types of steatocystoma multiplex have been described.
- ^ Freedberg, et al. (2003). Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. (6th ed.). McGraw-Hill. ISBN 0-07-138076-0.
- ^ Davey, Mathew. "Steatocystoma Multiplex". Retrieved 25 May 2011.