Lumps under the skin can form for many reasons, including cysts or swollen lymph nodes. Generally, they do not require treatment; however, if they change in size or appearance, consult a doctor for an examination.
Lumps, bumps, or growths beneath the skin are not unusual. A lump under the skin can develop for many reasons.
Read on to learn more about common causes of hard lumps under the skin and when it is advisable to lump checked.
Can a Hard Lump Disappear?
In most cases, lumps are harmless (benign). Specific characteristics of the lump can provide further information regarding potential causes and help determine whether you should consult a medical professional.
Harmless lumps do not require treatment unless you wish to have them detached for cosmetic reasons or if they have become infected. These include:
- Epidermoid cysts: These are twice as common in men and typically do not develop before puberty.
- Lipomas: These are more common in adults aged 40 to 60. While they usually do not require treatment, they can be a symptom of an underlying genetic condition, such as Gardner syndrome.
- Dermatofibromas: Although these lumps are harmless, they can occasionally cause itching or pain. Research suggests that they are more common in women.
- Ganglion cysts: A cyst cyst is a small, round, fluid-filled lump that grows beneath the surface of the skin, typically on the hands. The cyst sits atop a small stalk, which may give the impression that it is moving. It is generally harmless and most often occurs in people aged 15 to 40.
The causes of lumps that may require treatment include:
Keratoacanthoma (KA): This skin tumour is more common in areas of high sun exposure, such as the hands and face.
Skin Abscess: A rounded lump filled with pus, often caused by bacterial infections. Treatment typically involves drainage and antibiotics.
Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes respond to infections by trapping and eliminating damaged or infectious cells. Lymphocytes can cause swelling in the nodes as part of the immune system’s response. It may also be caused by an injury and, in some cases, by cancer. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Hernia: This is a lump that forms when a part of the body—such as an organ—pushes through the surrounding tissue. There are several types of hernias.
How are hard lumps diagnosed?
Generally, doctors can diagnose benign skin tumors by observing their location, appearance, and other additional characteristics—such as whether they are painful, itchy, or bleeding.
If there is any doubt or if the tumour begins to change unexpectedly, it may be necessary to remove it and have it biopsied.
When should I be concerned about a hard lump?
Typically, hard lumps do not require medical treatment. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional—such as a dermatologist—if you notice skin growths that change in shape, colour, or size.
Usually, a non-cancerous lump is soft and can move beneath the skin. Therefore, if you notice a hard lump, consult a doctor to obtain a proper diagnosis. However, cancerous lumps can also be soft.
You should also consult a doctor if the lump:
- bleeds or oozes
- causes pain
- increases in size
- is red or inflamed
- is accompanied by unintentional weight loss
In Summary
Lumps under the skin are common and can have various causes. In some cases, lumps disappear without treatment.
It is not always possible to determine exactly what is causing a lump. If you notice a lump under your skin, observe it closely. Generally, soft, movable lumps are harmless and may improve over time.
However, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional, especially if you are concerned about the situation.