Lip Nodules: Should You Be Concerned?

Lower lip issues?

Hello Doctor: Since I was a child, I have had three small lumps on my lower lip that can only be felt when pressed.
They move around, are slippery, and do not hurt or cause any sensation.
They appear to be located near a blood vessel.
Should I take any action regarding this condition, or is it better to coexist with it? Is there a possibility of cancerous transformation? Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Xiao Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/27

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry

Dear user, based on your description, you have noticed three small movable lumps on your lower lip since childhood that can only be felt when pressed and are not painful.
It is advisable to seek an early consultation with a dentist or an oral and maxillofacial specialist to determine whether these lumps are normal anatomical structures or if further examination and treatment are necessary.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2015/12/27

More Info

When it comes to lip nodules, particularly those that have been present since childhood and are described as small, movable, and non-painful, there are several factors to consider in determining whether they warrant concern or intervention.
Firstly, the characteristics you've described—small, movable, smooth, and non-tender nodules—are often indicative of benign conditions. Common benign lip nodules include mucoceles, which are fluid-filled cysts that can occur when a salivary gland duct is blocked, or fibromas, which are benign tumors made up of connective tissue. These types of nodules are generally harmless and do not pose a risk of cancer.

However, the concern for malignancy typically arises when nodules exhibit certain characteristics, such as rapid growth, changes in color, irregular borders, or if they become painful or ulcerated. In your case, since the nodules have been stable and asymptomatic for a long time, the likelihood of them being malignant is low.
That said, it is essential to monitor any changes in the nodules over time. If you notice any new symptoms, such as changes in size, color, or texture, or if they become painful, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies or a biopsy if there is any suspicion of malignancy.

Regarding the risk of cancer transformation, while benign nodules are generally not associated with a significant risk of cancer, it is always wise to maintain regular check-ups, especially if there is a family history of skin or lip cancers. The risk of cancer can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices.

In conclusion, based on the information provided, it seems that you can likely continue to "coexist peacefully" with these lip nodules, given their benign characteristics. However, maintaining awareness of any changes and consulting with a healthcare provider for periodic evaluations is advisable. If you have any concerns or if the nodules begin to change, seeking medical advice would be the best course of action. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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