Is It Normal to Have a Hard Lump After Cellulitis Healing in Children?

Is it normal to have a long, firm lump inside the scar tissue after recovering from cellulitis?

My child (age: 1 year) was hospitalized for cellulitis (caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection) from September 27 and was discharged on October 3 after recovery.
However, it has been two weeks since discharge, and the scar area still feels hard to the touch.
Is this normal? Should I massage the area to help soften it? (I'm unsure if it will hurt, as my child is still not able to express discomfort well; I only know that if pressed hard, my child will cry.) Additionally, there is a dark red scar left in that area; should I treat it to fade the scar? Thank you for your response.

ej, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/10/17

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Although the infection from cellulitis has resolved, the localized redness and inflammation typically do not subside quickly.
Since there has been no direct examination, it is difficult to determine whether it is a scar.
It is recommended to wait for 1-2 months; if it is inflammation, it will diminish, whereas a scar will not disappear.
Massage or manipulation is unlikely to be beneficial, so it is best not to increase the child's discomfort.

Reply Date: 2014/10/17

More Info

It is not uncommon for children to develop a hard lump at the site of a previous cellulitis infection after healing. This lump is often a result of the body’s natural healing process, which can include the formation of scar tissue or fibrosis in the area where the infection occurred. When the skin and underlying tissues are damaged due to infection, the body responds by sending cells to repair the area, which can lead to a firm lump as the tissues heal.

In your child's case, the hard lump you are feeling could be a combination of scar tissue and residual inflammation from the cellulitis. It is important to monitor the lump for any changes in size, shape, or tenderness. If the lump remains hard but does not grow or cause discomfort, it is likely a normal part of the healing process. However, if you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from the area, you should consult your pediatrician.

As for massage, it is generally advisable to be cautious. While gentle massage can sometimes help to soften scar tissue, it is essential to ensure that it does not cause pain or discomfort to your child. Since your child is still quite young and may not be able to communicate their feelings effectively, it might be best to avoid aggressive massage techniques. Instead, you can gently rub the area with your fingers to see if it helps to alleviate any tightness without causing pain. If your child reacts negatively, it’s best to stop and consult a healthcare professional.

Regarding the dark red scar left behind, it is also common for scars to appear darker initially. Over time, many scars will fade and become less noticeable. If you are concerned about the appearance of the scar or if it seems to be causing any discomfort, you may want to discuss scar management options with your pediatrician. They may recommend topical treatments, silicone gel sheets, or other therapies to help improve the appearance of the scar.

In summary, the hard lump you are feeling is likely a normal part of the healing process after cellulitis. Monitor the area for any changes and consult your pediatrician if you have concerns. Gentle massage may be beneficial, but it should be done with caution. Lastly, the appearance of the scar may improve over time, but if you have concerns, discussing them with your healthcare provider is always a good idea.

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