Unidentified Growth on My Thumb: What Could It Be?

I don't know what has grown on my finger?

Hello Doctor: I have a growth on my thumb that I have had for about 3 years (it is neither painful nor itchy).
I previously had a viral wart, which has since been treated.
However, this growth remains.
A dermatologist told me that it is not a viral wart, and an orthopedic X-ray showed nothing abnormal.
I would like to ask you, what could this growth be? Is it necessary for me to go to a major hospital, or can I coexist with it peacefully? [The following link contains photos on Google Drive; I would appreciate it if you could take a look.
Thank you!!] https://drive.google.com/file/d/13whwj_FwPGtM9kmKYIq3zPxtWyIFWW6o/view?usp=sharing

Zhang Jiayuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/24

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Medical regulations state that "a physician must personally examine a patient before providing treatment or prescribing medication," and therefore, online diagnosis is not permissible.
If you are experiencing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2020/06/24

More Info

When it comes to an unidentified growth on your thumb that has persisted for three years without causing pain or itching, there are several possibilities to consider. Since you have a history of viral warts, it is understandable to be concerned about any new growths on your skin. However, as you mentioned, a dermatologist has already evaluated the growth and determined that it is not a viral wart, and an orthopedic evaluation via X-ray showed no underlying issues.

Given this context, the growth could be a number of benign conditions. Some common possibilities include:
1. Seborrheic Keratosis: This is a non-cancerous skin growth that often appears as a brown, black, or light tan bump. They are usually painless and can vary in size and shape.

2. Dermatofibroma: This is a small, firm, raised growth that is usually brownish in color. It is benign and often occurs on the arms or legs.

3. Lipoma: A lipoma is a benign tumor made of fat tissue. They are soft to the touch and can be moved slightly under the skin.

4. Cyst: A cyst can form under the skin and may feel like a small lump. These can be filled with fluid or semi-solid material and are generally harmless.

5. Keratotic Lesion: These can occur due to various reasons, including sun exposure or irritation, and may appear as rough patches or bumps on the skin.

Since the growth has not changed in size, color, or sensation over the three years, it is likely benign. However, it is essential to monitor any changes in the growth, such as an increase in size, color change, or the development of pain or itching. If any of these changes occur, or if you have any new concerns, it would be wise to seek further evaluation from a dermatologist or a specialized clinic.

Regarding whether you should visit a larger hospital, it depends on your comfort level and the advice of your current healthcare providers. If you feel uncertain or if the growth begins to change, seeking a second opinion from a different dermatologist or a specialized skin clinic could provide additional insights. Larger hospitals often have more resources and specialists who can offer advanced diagnostic tools and treatments if necessary.

In conclusion, while it is understandable to be concerned about any growth on your body, especially one that has persisted for years, the lack of symptoms and previous evaluations suggesting it is not a viral wart are reassuring. Maintaining regular check-ups and being vigilant about any changes will help ensure that you stay informed about your health. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and peace of mind are paramount.

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