Subcutaneous Bumps: Causes and Concerns

Feeling a lump beneath the skin?

Hello Doctor: My friend recently discovered an unknown round lump on the back of his hand near the index finger.
It can move when touched and feels like it's located beneath the skin.
He mentioned that it initially appeared slightly red, and he thought it was a mosquito bite, so he didn't pay much attention to it.
However, it has persisted for nearly a week, and the lump has not disappeared.
Could you please advise what this condition might be? Thank you!

ALICE, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/04/18

Dr. Liao Wenyu reply Dermatology

Please visit the outpatient clinic for an examination to understand the actual situation.

Reply Date: 2001/04/18

More Info

Subcutaneous bumps, or lumps beneath the skin, can arise from a variety of causes, and understanding these can help determine whether medical attention is necessary. In your friend's case, the bump on the back of his hand near the index finger, which is movable and has persisted for about a week, could be indicative of several conditions.

1. Common Causes:
- Lipomas: These are benign tumors made of fatty tissue. They are typically soft, movable, and painless. Lipomas can occur anywhere on the body, including the hands.

- Cysts: A common type is a ganglion cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac that often forms near joints or tendons. These cysts can feel firm and may be tender, but they are generally benign.

- Dermatofibromas: These are small, firm nodules that can develop on the skin. They are usually harmless and can be slightly raised.

- Infections: Sometimes, a bump can be a sign of an infection, such as an abscess, which may feel warm, painful, and tender to the touch. If the bump is red and inflamed, it could indicate an infection that requires medical evaluation.

2. Symptoms to Monitor:
- If the bump becomes increasingly painful, red, or swollen, or if your friend develops fever or drainage from the bump, these could be signs of an infection or other complications that warrant immediate medical attention.

- Changes in size or shape of the bump are also important to note. If it grows rapidly or changes in texture, this could indicate a more serious condition.

3. When to Seek Medical Attention:
- If the bump does not resolve within a couple of weeks, or if it starts to cause discomfort or other symptoms, it would be advisable for your friend to consult a healthcare provider. A physician can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to better understand the nature of the bump.

- In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out malignancy, especially if there is any suspicion based on the characteristics of the lump.

4. Diagnosis and Treatment:
- A healthcare provider will likely take a detailed history and perform a physical examination. Depending on the findings, they may suggest monitoring the bump, performing a fine needle aspiration, or excising the bump if it is causing concern or discomfort.

- Treatment will depend on the diagnosis. For benign conditions like lipomas or cysts, observation may be sufficient, while infections may require antibiotics or drainage.

In conclusion, while many subcutaneous bumps are benign and may not require treatment, it is essential to monitor any changes and consult a healthcare professional if there are concerns. Early evaluation can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly, providing peace of mind and appropriate care.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Subcutaneous Bumps: Causes and Treatment Options

A red bump in the groin area that resembles a mosquito bite, which is itchy and painful, and has a hard lump underneath when pressed, could be indicative of several conditions, such as an insect bite, an allergic reaction, or a skin infection like folliculitis or an abscess. It...

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: A proper diagnosis of skin diseases cannot be made based solely on a textual description. If your skin abnormalities persist, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment. Thank you!

Understanding Subcutaneous Nodules: Causes and Concerns in Tumor Care

Subcutaneous lumps in the thigh and buttock area that appear intermittently and resolve within a few days to a week may be indicative of various conditions, such as lipomas, cysts, or localized inflammation. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate dia...

Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear A-Chung, You mentioned that you occasionally experience subcutaneous lumps in your thigh and buttock areas, which tend to resolve after a few days to a week. Regarding your concern, I cannot provide an accurate response without seeing your condition in person. If you notic...

Understanding Subcutaneous Bumps: When to See a Dermatologist

Hello Dr. Wu, I recently developed something on my face that looks like a pimple, but it is beneath the skin and feels raised. It also hurts when I press on it firmly. What could this be? Do I need to see a doctor? Thank you!

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
The information you provided is too limited, and without actually seeing the lesion, it cannot be confirmed. If this is causing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Understanding Skin Bumps: Causes, Treatments, and Care Tips

Based on the description, it sounds like you may have a skin lesion that is raised, round, and painful to the touch. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They may recommend a topical medication, such as a cortic...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
Medical regulations state that "a physician must personally examine a patient before administering treatment or prescribing medication..." Therefore, online diagnosis is also not permissible. If you are experiencing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical ...