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Can an old sebaceous cyst suddenly become infected and painful?

3 weeks ago

I've had a small painless lump on my shoulder for years and never bothered about it. Recently it became swollen and painful. Can an old sebaceous cyst suddenly become infected like this?

Asked By nitin singh | Male | Age 26

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3 weeks ago

Answers (4)

Pristyn Care Team

Simplifying Healthcare

Aug 25 2026

Yes, a long-standing sebaceous cyst can suddenly become infected, leading to swelling, redness, and pain ,  this is known as an infected or inflamed sebaceous cyst.

This can happen due to bacterial infection or spontaneous inflammation. It is advisable to consult a doctor, as an infected cyst may require drainage or removal and should not be squeezed at home.

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Dr. Vinay Nandlal Baretha

Top Doctor

MBBS, MS-General Surgery, M.Ch-Plastic Surgery|11+ Years Experience Overall

Aug 29 2026

Yes old sebaceous cyst can become infected depending on your general health conditions like diabetes or some other underlying conditions. Should seek advise from the nearby surgeon for the Management of infected sebaceous cyst.

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Dr. Kartik Adhitya

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, M. Ch - Plastic Surgery|16+ Years Experience Overall

Sep 10 2026

Yes. Sebaceous cyst can get infected any time there is a breach in the skin and bacteria enters inside. An infected sebaceous cyst needs immediate attention

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Dr. Abhishek Vijay Kumar

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, M.Ch. - Plastic Surgery|15+ Years Experience Overall

Sep 13 2026

Yes long standing sebaceous cyst has chance of getting infected and causes pus and skin breakdown.. Infected cyst require immediate attention and surgery

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