Black Bumps on the Shoulder: When to Seek Medical Advice

Small black hard lump on the shoulder?

Hello doctor, I originally had something on my shoulder that looked like a mole, but later it faded in color and appeared as small dark spots under the skin.
A while ago, I squeezed it out and it was indeed a small hard lump.
After that, I didn't pay much attention to it, but today while showering, it grew back and was surprisingly a bit larger than before.
Should I get this checked out? The small hard lump is about 0.1 cm in size.

A-Jia, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/24

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It is likely a cyst based on the description, but without actually seeing the lesion, it cannot be confirmed.
It is recommended to have it evaluated by a dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2015/10/24

More Info

When it comes to changes in the skin, particularly the appearance of black bumps or hard lumps, it is essential to approach the situation with caution. Based on your description, it seems that you initially had a mole-like structure on your shoulder that has since changed in color and size. The fact that it has reappeared after being squeezed out is concerning and warrants further investigation.

Firstly, it is important to understand that skin lesions can vary widely in their nature. They can be benign, such as seborrheic keratosis or dermatofibromas, or they can be more serious, such as melanoma or other forms of skin cancer. The characteristics you described—specifically the change in color, the presence of a hard lump, and its recurrence after being squeezed—are all factors that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Change in Appearance: Any change in the color, size, or texture of a skin lesion is a red flag. The fact that the bump has changed from a mole-like appearance to a darker, harder lump suggests that it may not be a simple benign growth.

2. Recurrence: The fact that the bump reappeared after you squeezed it out is also concerning. Benign lesions typically do not grow back once they have been removed, while malignant lesions may continue to grow or change.

3. Size and Growth: While you mentioned that the bump is only about 0.1 cm in size, the fact that it has grown larger after being manipulated is significant. Growth in size, especially after trauma (like squeezing), can indicate that the lesion is reactive or potentially malignant.

4. Symptoms: If you experience any additional symptoms such as pain, itching, bleeding, or changes in surrounding skin, these could further indicate that the lesion requires medical attention.

Given these considerations, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A dermatologist is best suited to evaluate skin lesions. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend a biopsy if they suspect that the lesion could be malignant. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of the tissue for laboratory analysis, which can provide a definitive diagnosis.

In the meantime, avoid squeezing or manipulating the bump further, as this can lead to irritation, infection, or further changes in the lesion. Keeping the area clean and monitoring for any additional changes is important.

In summary, while not all skin bumps are indicative of serious conditions, the changes you've observed in your shoulder bump warrant a professional evaluation. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial in managing any potential skin issues effectively. Therefore, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible to ensure that you receive the appropriate care and peace of mind regarding your skin health.

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