Which Medical Specialty Should I See for a Scalp Lump? - Dermatology

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When it comes to a lump on the scalp, the appropriate medical specialty to consult can depend on several factors, including the characteristics of the lump and any associated symptoms. Given your description of the lump being located beneath the scalp (not on the surface), initially painful but now painless, and movable, there are a few specialties that could be relevant.

1. Dermatology: This is often the first specialty to consider for skin-related issues, including lumps on the scalp. Dermatologists are trained to evaluate skin lesions, cysts, and other dermatological conditions. They can determine if the lump is a sebaceous cyst, lipoma, or another type of skin growth. If the lump requires removal or biopsy, a dermatologist can perform these procedures.

2. General Surgery: If the lump is determined to be something that needs surgical intervention, such as a larger cyst or a lipoma, a referral to a general surgeon may be necessary. General surgeons are skilled in excising lumps and can provide a definitive diagnosis through histopathological examination if needed.

3. Neurosurgery: If there are any neurological symptoms associated with the lump, such as headaches, changes in vision, or neurological deficits, a neurosurgeon may need to be consulted. They specialize in conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord and can evaluate whether the lump is related to a more serious condition.

4. Internal Medicine: If there are systemic symptoms or concerns, such as fever or unexplained weight loss, an internist may be appropriate to rule out any underlying systemic conditions that could be causing the lump.

In your case, since the lump is not currently painful and is movable, starting with a dermatologist would be a reasonable choice. They can assess the lump and determine if further evaluation or treatment is necessary. If the dermatologist finds that the lump requires surgical removal or further investigation, they can refer you to a general surgeon or another appropriate specialist.


Additional Considerations
- Imaging Studies: Depending on the initial examination, the dermatologist may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to better understand the nature of the lump, especially if it is deep-seated.


- Biopsy: If there is any concern about the nature of the lump (for example, if there is a suspicion of malignancy), a biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for pathological analysis.

- Follow-Up: Regardless of the specialty you choose, it’s important to have a follow-up plan. If the lump changes in size, shape, or becomes painful again, you should seek medical attention promptly.

- Patient History: Be prepared to provide a detailed medical history, including any previous skin conditions, family history of skin cancer, or other relevant health issues, as this information can aid in diagnosis.

In summary, starting with a dermatologist is advisable for a scalp lump, as they can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you to the next steps based on their findings. If necessary, they can refer you to a general surgeon or other specialists based on the lump's characteristics and any associated symptoms.