a Non-Movable Lump on the Back of Your Thigh

There is a round, hard lump on the back of the thigh?

Hello doctor, I have a round, firm lump about 2 cm in size on the back of my thigh.
It does not move, is not painful or itchy, but feels uncomfortable when sitting on a hard chair.
It has been there for at least ten years, and recently I feel like it might be getting larger.
When I touch it, it feels like there is a round object under the skin.
What could this be?

Axiang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/17

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! Skin tumors mainly include lipomas and sebaceous cysts.
If a lipoma increases in size, surgical removal is recommended.
Similarly, for sebaceous cysts, surgery is also advised to prevent recurrent inflammation.
Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2016/03/17

More Info

When it comes to a non-movable lump on the back of your thigh, there are several possibilities to consider. Given that the lump has been present for at least ten years, is approximately 2 cm in size, and is not painful or itchy, it may be a benign growth such as a lipoma or a fibroma.
Lipomas are soft, fatty tumors that are generally harmless and can occur anywhere on the body, including the thighs. They are typically slow-growing, movable, and painless, but in some cases, they can feel firmer and may not be easily movable, especially if they are deeper in the tissue.
Fibromas, on the other hand, are fibrous tissue tumors that can also be benign. They may feel firmer than lipomas and can be fixed to the underlying tissue, which might explain why your lump is non-movable.
Another possibility could be a sebaceous cyst, which is a closed sac under the skin filled with a cheese-like or oily material. These cysts can feel firm and may become larger over time. They are usually not painful unless they become infected.

Since you mentioned that the lump seems to have increased in size recently, it is essential to monitor this change. While benign lumps are common, any change in size, shape, or texture warrants further evaluation.
Here are some steps you should consider:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is advisable to see a healthcare provider, preferably a dermatologist or a general practitioner, who can perform a physical examination of the lump. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to get a better understanding of the lump's characteristics.

2. Biopsy: If there is any concern regarding the nature of the lump, your doctor may suggest a biopsy to rule out any malignant conditions. This involves taking a small sample of the tissue for laboratory analysis.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the lump, such as increased size, pain, or any new symptoms. If you experience any discomfort or changes in your mobility, make sure to report these to your healthcare provider.

4. Avoid Pressure: Since you mentioned that sitting on hard surfaces causes discomfort, try to avoid prolonged pressure on the area until you have a clearer understanding of what the lump is.

In summary, while the lump you described is likely benign, it is crucial to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially since you have noticed a change in size. Early assessment can provide peace of mind and ensure that any necessary treatment is initiated promptly.

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