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Scalp cyst - Large Biopsy 3-6 cm
Biopsy
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Histopathology of scalp lesions.
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Scalp Cyst - Large Biopsy 3-6 cm
- Why is it done?
- To obtain tissue samples from a scalp cyst measuring 3-6 cm in diameter for definitive histopathological diagnosis
- To differentiate between benign cystic lesions (epidermoid cysts, pilar cysts, dermoid cysts) and potentially malignant neoplasms
- To rule out squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, or other malignant conditions
- To evaluate inflammatory or infectious conditions affecting the scalp
- Ordered when imaging studies are inconclusive or when rapid growth or concerning clinical features are noted
- Typically performed when dermatologic examination reveals a suspicious lesion requiring tissue confirmation
- Normal Range
- Normal/Benign Result: Histological findings consistent with benign cystic lesions such as epidermoid cyst (keratin-filled, stratified squamous epithelium) or pilar cyst
- Key Features of Normal: Well-demarcated, non-infiltrative lesion with intact epidermal lining; no atypia or malignant features; normal mitotic activity; no evidence of infection or inflammation
- Abnormal/Malignant Result: Histological evidence of malignancy including atypical cells, increased mitotic figures, infiltrative growth pattern, nuclear pleomorphism, or necrosis
- Units of Measurement: Pathological diagnosis (categorical); cyst size 3-6 cm measured in centimeters
- Interpretation
- Benign Epidermoid Cyst: Most common finding; cyst wall lined with stratified squamous epithelium; filled with keratin and sebaceous material; no signs of malignancy; typically requires only observational follow-up or surgical removal if symptomatic
- Benign Pilar Cyst: More common on scalp; similar histology to epidermoid but with different keratin composition; benign diagnosis with excellent prognosis
- Dermoid Cyst: Contains hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands; benign congenital lesion; may cause cosmetic concerns or become infected
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Atypical squamous cells with infiltrative growth; increased mitotic activity; keratinization; requires immediate oncologic referral and treatment planning with wide surgical excision or Mohs surgery
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: Nests of basaloid cells; peripheral palisading; may show ulceration; requires oncologic management and close monitoring for recurrence
- Melanoma: Atypical melanocytes; high mitotic rate; architectural disorder; requires urgent dermatologic-oncologic consultation, wide excision, and systemic evaluation for metastases
- Inflammatory/Infectious Conditions: Histology showing inflammatory cells, granulomas, or microorganisms; management directed at underlying etiology
- Factors Affecting Interpretation: Specimen adequacy and orientation; presence of margins; clinical history; immunohistochemical studies when indicated; degree of sampling from cyst
- Associated Organs
- Primary Organ System: Integumentary system (skin and its appendages); scalp epidermis and dermis
- Benign Conditions Associated: Epidermoid cysts; pilar cysts; dermoid cysts; lipomas; fibromas; sebaceous hyperplasia
- Malignant Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose: Squamous cell carcinoma; basal cell carcinoma; melanoma; merkel cell carcinoma; primary cutaneous lymphomas
- Inflammatory/Infectious Conditions: Sarcoidosis; fungal infections; bacterial infections; granulomatous diseases; cystic fibrosis-related lesions
- Potential Complications of Abnormal Results: If malignancy diagnosed: metastatic spread to lymph nodes, brain, lungs, or bone; need for systemic treatment; mortality risk depending on type and stage; cosmetic disfigurement after treatment
- Biopsy-Related Complications: Infection; bleeding; scarring; alopecia (hair loss) at biopsy site; pain or numbness; rarely, anesthetic complications
- Follow-up Tests
- If Benign Diagnosis Confirmed: Clinical observation; re-imaging only if symptoms develop; routine follow-up imaging typically not required
- If Malignancy Diagnosed: Wide surgical excision margins; Mohs surgery if indicated; complete surgical staging; oncologic consultation; systemic imaging (CT chest/abdomen/pelvis); lymph node assessment
- Complementary Imaging Studies: MRI scalp/brain if deep involvement suspected; ultrasound for superficial assessment; CT for staging malignancy
- Related Dermatopathology Tests: Immunohistochemistry (melanoma markers, SCC markers); flow cytometry; bacterial/fungal/viral cultures; electron microscopy if indicated
- Monitoring Frequency: Benign lesions: annual skin checks by dermatology; Malignant lesions: baseline imaging followed by surveillance imaging every 3-6 months for first 2 years, then annually based on stage and type
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: May be recommended for certain melanomas or high-risk squamous cell carcinomas
- Fasting Required?
- Fasting Required: No - This is a local dermatologic biopsy procedure that does not require systemic fasting
- Special Preparation Instructions: Wash hair and scalp gently the morning of procedure; avoid hair products, conditioners, and styling agents; wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing; avoid direct sun exposure to scalp for 48 hours prior if possible
- Medications to Avoid or Adjust: Aspirin - discontinue 5-7 days before if possible; NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) - avoid for 3-5 days prior; Anticoagulants (warfarin, apixaban) - consult with physician regarding continuation; Clopidogrel/ticlopidine - may need adjustment; Vitamin E supplements - discontinue 3-5 days prior
- Pre-Procedure Requirements: Informed consent; allergy history documentation (especially local anesthetic allergies); list of current medications and supplements; confirmation of last meal (no specific timing required); plan for transportation if sedation used
- Post-Procedure Care: Keep biopsy site clean and dry; apply prescribed antibiotic ointment; avoid hair washing for 24-48 hours; avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours; monitor for signs of infection (increased warmth, redness, drainage, fever); results typically available in 5-10 business days
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