a Hard Lump on the Back of the Hand: Causes and Concerns

Small hard lumps on the back of the hand?

Hello, I would like to ask a question.
My father was working and while holding a hammer in his right hand to strike something, he was also holding the object with his left hand.
Although he didn't hit his hand, the force of the strikes was significant enough that his left hand felt the impact.
After returning home, the back of his left hand became swollen, and there was a small lump that seemed to move around.
After two days, although the swelling gradually decreased, the lump became fixed in place and has remained there for almost two weeks without disappearing.
I would like to know if this lump is caused by the impact or if there could be another reason.
He has seen a surgeon and had an X-ray, and the doctor mentioned it could be a tumor.
But can a tumor grow that quickly? In less than two weeks, can it grow that fast? The doctor also suggested it might be due to debris that couldn't pass through the bloodstream, possibly indicating leukemia.
I am really worried.
Can the doctor understand my concerns? Could you help me clarify what might be causing this lump that hasn't gone away after almost two weeks?

Huihui, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/08

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

You may want to clarify what the physician's diagnosis is.
Based on my assessment, it could be a ganglion cyst, commonly referred to as a tendon sheath tumor.
This condition is caused by overuse or external force, and the contents of the cyst are synovial fluid or tendon sheath fluid.
It is one of the most common benign tumors of the hand.

Reply Date: 2005/07/08

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the hard lump on your father's hand. Based on the description you provided, it sounds like your father experienced a significant impact while using a hammer, which could have led to a few possible conditions.

Firstly, the lump that developed on the back of his hand could be a hematoma, which is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, typically caused by trauma. When a significant force is applied, such as in your father's case, blood vessels can rupture, leading to swelling and the formation of a lump. Initially, this lump may feel mobile or "run around" as the blood collects in the surrounding tissue, but as it organizes and the swelling decreases, it may become more fixed in place.

Another possibility is that the lump could be a ganglion cyst. These are non-cancerous lumps filled with a jelly-like fluid that often develop along the tendons or joints of the wrists and hands. They can arise after trauma but are not always directly related to an injury. Ganglion cysts can fluctuate in size and may feel firm or rubbery.

The concern raised by the doctor regarding a tumor is also valid, but it is important to note that tumors typically do not develop rapidly in the span of a few days. If the lump has been present for nearly two weeks without significant changes in size or characteristics, it is less likely to be a malignant tumor. However, the term "tumor" can refer to any abnormal growth, benign or malignant, and it is essential to clarify this with the physician.

The mention of "dirty things" in the blood leading to potential blood cancer is concerning and should be taken seriously. However, blood cancers like leukemia usually present with a range of symptoms, including fatigue, unexplained bruising, frequent infections, and more, rather than just a localized lump. If your father is experiencing other systemic symptoms, further evaluation would be warranted.

Given the complexity of the situation, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare professional, preferably an orthopedic or hand specialist, who can perform a thorough examination and possibly recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to better understand the nature of the lump. If there is any suspicion of a more serious condition, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out malignancy.

In the meantime, it is advisable for your father to avoid any activities that may exacerbate the injury, such as heavy lifting or repetitive motions with that hand. Applying ice to the area can help reduce swelling, and over-the-counter pain relievers may alleviate discomfort.

In summary, while the lump on your father's hand could be a hematoma or a ganglion cyst resulting from the trauma, it is essential to continue monitoring the situation and consult with a specialist for a definitive diagnosis and appropriate management. Your father's health and peace of mind are paramount, so seeking further medical advice is the best course of action. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope your father finds relief soon!

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