a Persistent Bump on the Back of Your Head

Q: a Persistent Bump on the Back of Your Head

Hello： When the skin surface is scratched and injured, it will form a scab. <br>The scab will naturally fall off once the underlying skin has healed. <br>If you remove the scab before the right time, it will guarantee the formation of a new scab. <br>Wishing you a speedy recovery

I have a "bean"-shaped lump on the back of my head?

I discovered a small lump on the back of my head when I was in the fourth grade.
Now that I'm in the first year of junior high, it’s still there, but its size hasn’t changed.
Sometimes the top of the lump forms a scab, and when I remove it, it quickly forms again.
Why is that?

Fanrao Nan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/05/01

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

Hello: When the skin surface is scratched and injured, it will form a scab.
The scab will naturally fall off once the underlying skin has healed.
If you remove the scab before the right time, it will guarantee the formation of a new scab.
Wishing you a speedy recovery from the habit of picking at scabs.

Reply Date: 2010/05/01

More Info

When it comes to a persistent bump on the back of your head, especially one that has been present since childhood, there are several potential explanations. Given that you mentioned this bump has not changed in size and occasionally develops a scab, it is important to consider a few possibilities.

Firstly, the bump could be a benign growth such as a sebaceous cyst or a lipoma. Sebaceous cysts are common and occur when a hair follicle becomes blocked, leading to the accumulation of keratin and other debris. They can sometimes become inflamed or infected, which might explain the scabbing you mentioned. Lipomas, on the other hand, are soft, fatty lumps that are also benign and typically do not cause any pain or discomfort.

Another possibility is that the bump could be related to a previous injury or trauma. If you had any incidents where you bumped your head, it could have led to the formation of a hematoma or a localized area of swelling that has since become a stable lump. This type of bump might remain unchanged for years unless it becomes irritated or inflamed.

In some cases, persistent bumps can also be associated with conditions such as dermatofibromas, which are benign skin tumors, or even keloids, which are overgrowths of scar tissue that can form after an injury. These conditions can also lead to scabbing if the skin is irritated or if there is any friction in that area.

Given that the bump has been present for several years and has not changed significantly, it is likely benign. However, the fact that it occasionally develops a scab could indicate that it is being irritated or that there is some underlying issue that needs to be addressed. It is essential to avoid picking at the scab, as this can lead to infection or further irritation.

I recommend that you consult a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist, who can examine the bump in person. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, recommend imaging studies or a biopsy to determine the exact nature of the bump. This is particularly important if you notice any changes in size, color, or if it becomes painful.

In summary, while the bump on the back of your head is likely benign, it is crucial to have it evaluated by a medical professional to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate care. Regular monitoring and proper hygiene can help manage the area, but professional advice is the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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