Unusual Growth on Thigh: When to See a Dermatologist?

If you have developed a strange growth on your thigh, you should consult a dermatologist?

Hello, doctor.
About a year ago, a black spot started to appear on my leg, and recently the area around the black spot has begun to swell and is painful when pressed.
Here is the link to the photo: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1OpxigilifuAjyRYaxWm2QprPGMmtZBEw.
I would like to know what symptoms this might indicate and how urgent the treatment is (since I am studying abroad, if it is urgent, I will need to arrange a trip back to Taiwan).
Thank you!

Ranran, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/20

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Medical regulations state that "a physician must personally examine a patient before administering treatment or prescribing medication," and therefore, online diagnosis is not permitted.
If there is swelling that is painful upon pressure, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible; there is no need to return to Taiwan, and treatment can be sought nearby.

Reply Date: 2019/04/20

More Info

When it comes to unusual skin growths, especially those that change in size, shape, or color, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution. Based on your description of a black spot on your thigh that has recently become swollen and painful upon pressure, there are several potential considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, the characteristics of the growth you described—specifically, the change in size and the onset of pain—are significant. In dermatology, any new or changing skin lesion warrants careful evaluation. The fact that this black spot has been present for about a year but has recently changed suggests that it may be undergoing some form of transformation, which could be benign or potentially more serious.

There are several possibilities for what this growth could be. It might be a benign lesion such as a seborrheic keratosis, which is common and usually harmless, or a dermatofibroma, which is a fibrous nodule that can be tender. However, the combination of swelling and pain raises the concern for other conditions, including an infection or an inflammatory response. In some cases, a painful, swollen lesion could indicate a cyst that has become inflamed or infected, or even a more serious condition such as melanoma, especially if there are changes in color or irregular borders.

In terms of urgency, it is generally advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than later when it comes to changes in skin lesions. While it may not always be an emergency, the fact that you are experiencing pain and swelling suggests that it would be prudent to have it evaluated by a dermatologist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including a biopsy if necessary, to determine the nature of the growth and whether any treatment is required.

Given that you are currently studying abroad, you may want to consider a few options. If you have access to a dermatologist in your current location, it would be beneficial to schedule an appointment there. Many dermatologists are equipped to handle such evaluations and can provide you with the necessary care without requiring you to travel back home. If you feel that the symptoms are worsening or if you notice additional changes, such as increased pain, bleeding, or rapid growth, it may be worth prioritizing a visit to a healthcare provider.

In summary, while it is difficult to provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical examination, the symptoms you describe warrant a professional evaluation. Changes in skin lesions, especially those that become painful or swollen, should not be ignored. Seeking the advice of a dermatologist will help ensure that you receive appropriate care and peace of mind regarding your skin health.

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