A member asked:
what is the risk of not having a pilonidal cyst removed? i've had one for 12 years and it does not provide much, if any, discomfort.
3 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Stephen Lorino answered
Internal Medicine 26 years experience
No risk: There is no risk of leaving a pilonidal cyst. However, they can gradually enlarge. Assuming it is not changing in size, the only reason to have these removed is from a purely cosmetic standpoint.
5920 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Jan Rakinic answered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 38 years experience
Not much, for you.: If the cyst is relatively asymptomatic why do anything? Surgery always has risks. Keep the surrounding skin shaved and be mindful if symptoms arise.
5902 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Allen Kamrava answered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 15 years experience
Recurrence: Two main risks:
1. Recurrent infection at some point, that would cause it to become bigger over time. But you aren't having this
2. There is a very very small, but still real, risk of cancer formation. This is incredibly rare, but it happens in wounds that are over 10 years old. Again, very rare, but if you are asking the risks, this is a definitive risk.
5272 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
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Last updated Jun 18, 2018
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