Pilar cyst removal is one of the most common procedures in the Altruderm clinic and while harmless, these cysts have an interesting characteristic – they often run in families. Let’s explore why this happens and what it means for those affected.
Genetics
Pilar cysts can follow what scientists call an “autosomal dominant” inheritance pattern. In simpler terms, this means if one parent has the genetic trait for pilar cysts, their children have a 50% chance of inheriting it. This probability is the same regardless of whether the child is male or female.
Family Clustering
Due to this inheritance pattern, it’s common to see pilar cysts appearing in multiple members of the same family. You might notice these cysts across different generations – from grandparents to parents to children. This family clustering is a key feature of pilar cysts.
Implications for Patient Care
Understanding the genetic aspect of pilar cysts is valuable for both healthcare providers and patients:
– Doctors can provide more informed guidance
– Patients can be more proactive about monitoring their skin
Conclusion
The genetic nature of pilar cysts highlights the fascinating connection between our genes and our skin. For families affected by these cysts, understanding this link can provide context and guide how we treat them. As research progresses, we may uncover new insights into the relationship between genetics and skin health, potentially leading to improved treatments and care approaches.
For more information on Pilar Cysts read the British Association of Dermatologists’ Patient Information Leaflet
Cysts-epidermoid-and-pilar-PIL-March-2017.pdf (bad.org.uk)
What Are Pilar Cysts?
- Also known as trichilemmal cysts
- Common, benign fluid-filled growths that form from hair follicles
- Typically appear on the scalp
- Caused by a buildup of keratin in skin pores
- Usually present as smooth, movable, skin-coloured bumps
- Often harmless and may not require treatment
- Can become inflamed if the cyst wall ruptures
- Main treatment, if needed, is surgical excision
- May run in families due to genetic factors