Steatocystoma (Multiplex)
Steven D. Billings, MD
Key Facts
Terminology
Benign cyst derived from the sebaceous duct that may present as multiple lesions (steatocystoma multiplex) or as a single lesion (simplex)
Clinical Issues
Steatocystoma multiplex usually presents in adolescents, simplex in adults
May occur at any site, but trunk most common location overall
Microscopic Pathology
Thin-walled multiloculated cyst located in dermis
Undulating, eosinophilic cuticle forms the inner lining of the cyst
Sebaceous lobules usually identified within cyst wall
Top Differential Diagnoses
Vellus hair cyst
Dermoid cyst
Epidermoid cyst/epidermal inclusion cyst
 Steatocystomas present as thin-walled dermal cysts. Note the normal epidermis in the upper left corner  . |
 The cyst is lined by a thin squamous epithelial lining that has an eosinophilic cuticle and is associated with sebaceous glands. |
TERMINOLOGY
Definitions
Benign cyst derived from the sebaceous duct that may present as multiple lesions (steatocystoma multiplex) or as a single lesion (steatocystoma simplex)
CLINICAL ISSUES
Epidemiology
Incidence
Uncommon
Age
Steatocystoma multiplex usually presents in adolescents
Steatocystoma simplex usually presents in adults
Site
May occur at any site, but trunk is most common location for steatocystoma multiplex
Axillae and groin commonly affected in females
Steatocystoma simplex most common on face, neck, chest, and axillae
Presentation
Steatocystoma multiplex
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