Unchanging Skin Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice

A lump with coarse hair growth?

There are two oval-shaped lumps on my thigh, each about the size of a 50-cent coin.
They are not red, do not hurt, and are not itchy.
They feel similar to the sensation of a mosquito bite when swollen.
Pressing hard does not cause pain, and they move with the skin when lightly pushed.
I have had them since elementary school, and their shape and size have not changed.
As I got older, the hair growing on them has become particularly thick and long, similar to pubic hair.
I am unsure if I need to undergo a biopsy or similar tests.
I am afraid of pain and would like to know if a biopsy involves anesthesia.
Will it affect my daily life?

Chen Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/09

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery

Hello, if this has been present since elementary school for over a decade without any changes, it is less likely to be malignant.
The smear test you mentioned likely refers to a biopsy, which involves taking a small tissue sample for examination.
A smear test generally refers to a Pap smear, which is specifically for cervical screening.
A biopsy usually requires local anesthesia, which can be more painful, but it typically does not significantly affect daily life.
If you are truly concerned, it might be advisable to undergo an examination for peace of mind.

Reply Date: 2022/05/09

More Info

When it comes to skin lumps, particularly those that have been present for a long time without any changes in size, shape, or symptoms, it is essential to approach the situation with a balanced perspective. In your case, you have described two oval-shaped lumps on your thigh that are approximately the size of a fifty-cent coin. They are not red, painful, or itchy, and they have remained unchanged since childhood. This information is crucial in assessing the need for medical evaluation.

Understanding Skin Lumps
Skin lumps can arise from various causes, including benign conditions such as lipomas (fatty tumors), cysts, or dermatofibromas. Given that your lumps have been stable for many years and do not exhibit any concerning features (such as rapid growth, changes in color, or associated symptoms), they may likely be benign. The texture you described, similar to that of a mosquito bite, suggests that they may be soft tissue masses, which are often non-threatening.

When to Seek Medical Advice
While your lumps do not currently exhibit alarming characteristics, it is always prudent to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Here are some scenarios where seeking medical advice would be advisable:
1. Changes in Appearance: If the lumps begin to change in size, shape, or color, or if they become painful or itchy, it is essential to have them evaluated.

2. New Symptoms: The emergence of new symptoms, such as redness, warmth, or drainage from the lumps, warrants a medical assessment.

3. Personal or Family History: If you have a personal or family history of skin cancer or other skin conditions, it is wise to have any persistent lumps evaluated.

4. Psychological Impact: If the presence of these lumps causes you anxiety or affects your quality of life, discussing them with a healthcare provider can provide peace of mind.

Diagnostic Procedures
Regarding your concern about undergoing a biopsy (or "抹片檢查"), it is important to note that this procedure is typically performed to obtain a sample of tissue for further examination. In most cases, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area before the procedure, minimizing discomfort. The procedure itself is usually quick and can be done in an outpatient setting.

Impact on Daily Life
In terms of how a biopsy might affect your daily life, most individuals can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure, although it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities for a brief period. The site may be sore for a few days, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, while your skin lumps appear to be stable and benign, it is always best to err on the side of caution. If you have any doubts or if the lumps change in any way, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination and determine if any further investigation, such as a biopsy, is warranted. Remember, taking proactive steps regarding your health is always beneficial, and addressing your concerns with a professional can provide clarity and reassurance.

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