The cyst is typically filled with a substance called keratin, a protein that naturally occurs in the skin. It usually forms when hair follicles or oil glands become clogged, leading to the ...

and that placing an oil-soaked compress over the site of a cyst or a tumor (such as one caused by breast cancer) can break it up. But Dr. Jun Mao, the chief of integrative medicine service at ...

When breast tissue is damaged, fat cells in the tissue die and release oils that form small sacs called cysts. Over time, these cysts can harden and lead to the formation of scar tissue.

Medically reviewed by Chioma Ndubisi, MDOvarian cysts are usually harmless but treatments may be needed to manage symptoms.