What are the common causes of skin lumps all over the body? Get answers about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for various types of skin lumps, including benign, inflammatory, and cancerous growths.

Understanding Skin Lumps: An Overview

The term “skin lump” can be a vague description, as it can stem from a variety of causes. However, by understanding the characteristics of a skin lump, such as its texture, mobility, and appearance, you can gain valuable insights into the underlying condition. According to Dr. Lucia Seminario-Vidal, a board-certified dermatologist, skin lumps can be categorized into three main types: benign (noncancerous), inflammatory or infectious, and malignant (cancerous).

Symptoms and Signs of Skin Lumps

Skin lumps can exhibit a wide range of characteristics, including:

• Soft, mushy, or squishy texture
• Mobility (can be moved around)
• Fixed in one spot
• Firm or hard to the touch
• Red and inflamed
• Painful
• Presence of a central pore
• Well-defined under the skin
• Irregular contour
• Rapid growth

Depending on the underlying cause, additional symptoms may be present, such as enlarged lymph nodes, fever, and night sweats in the case of lymphoma.

Common Causes of Skin Lumps

Skin lumps can have a variety of causes, including:

• Skin Tags: These are small, skin-colored growths that often appear in areas where skin rubs together, such as the neck or armpits. They are generally benign and more common in older individuals or those with certain medical conditions like obesity or diabetes.
• Cysts: Cysts are one of the most common causes of skin lumps. They are smooth, mobile, oval-shaped growths that may have a central pore. Cysts can occur on the face, back, or other areas of the body.
• Lipoma: Lipomas are soft, doughy lumps caused by an overgrowth of fat cells beneath the skin. They are typically found on the shoulders, back, or upper arms.
• Warts: Warts are small, rough growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and often appear on the hands or feet.
• Inflammatory Acne: Inflamed, pus-filled bumps associated with acne can also be considered a type of skin lump.
• Lymphoma: Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin, along with other symptoms like fever and night sweats, may indicate lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system.
• Skin Cancer: Cancerous growths, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma, may present as shiny, irregular, or multicolored bumps or nodules on the skin.

Diagnosing and Treating Skin Lumps

If you notice a new skin lump or one that has changed in appearance, texture, or size, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider, such as a dermatologist. They can perform a physical examination and may order additional tests, such as a biopsy, to determine the underlying cause.

The treatment for a skin lump will depend on the specific type and underlying condition. Benign growths like skin tags or cysts may not require any treatment, while inflammatory or infectious lumps may be treated with medications or, in some cases, surgical removal. Cancerous skin lumps will typically require more immediate treatment, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Preventing Skin Lumps

While some types of skin lumps, such as those caused by genetic factors or certain medical conditions, may not be preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight and manage conditions like diabetes to lower your risk of skin tags and other benign growths.
• Protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation by using sunscreen, seeking shade, and covering up when outdoors to reduce your risk of skin cancer.
• Perform regular self-examinations of your skin to detect any changes or new growths, and see a dermatologist for routine skin checks.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you notice a new lump on your skin, or if an existing lump changes in appearance, texture, or size, it’s important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can evaluate the lump and determine the appropriate course of action, whether it’s a benign growth or something more serious that requires further investigation or treatment.

Key Takeaways

Skin lumps can have a wide range of causes, from benign growths to potentially serious conditions like skin cancer. By understanding the characteristics of a skin lump and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can take proactive steps to maintain your skin health and address any underlying issues.

What Is a Skin Lump? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Medically Reviewed

The term “skin lump” may be vague — and the symptom can stem from many, varied causes — but by decoding how it feels and looks, you can gain some clarity about what’s going on. “When patients complain about lumps, it usually refers to something on the skin that feels elevated or something under the skin that elevates it,” says Lucia Seminario-Vidal, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist at USF Health Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa, Florida. (A dermatologist wouldn’t call it a “skin lump,” and would more likely use a term like “elevated lesion,” she says.)

“Skin lumps” can be divided into three different categories, says Dr. Seminario-Vidal:

• Benign: Noncancerous and may require no treatment
• Inflammatory or infectious: Requires treatment but is not life-threatening
• Malignant: These are cancerous and would require treatment in the short-term (rather than a wait-and-see approach)

Signs and Symptoms of Skin Lumps

Skin lumps can have many different causes, which will impact how they look or feel. However, the following are some signs and symptoms that define a skin bump, says Rebecca Hartman, MD, MPH, a cutaneous oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. (Keep in mind that a single lump can’t possibly match all of the descriptions on this wide-ranging list):

• A lump that feels soft, mushy, or squishy
• A lump that feels mobile
• A lump that’s fixed
• A lump that’s firm
• A lump that feels hard
• A lump that’s red and inflamed
• A lump that’s painful
• A lump that has a central pore
• A lump that looks well-defined under the skin
• A lump that has an irregular contour
• A lump that is growing

In addition, depending on the cause, you could experience accompanying symptoms to the skin lump. For instance, one sign of lymphoma, or cancer of the lymphatic system, is enlarged lymph nodes in your armpits, neck, or groin, along with fever and night sweats. (1)

Common Questions & Answers

What causes lumps on the skin?

Lumps can be on or underneath the skin. They may range from skin tags, lipoma (fatty deposits under the skin), cysts, warts, inflammatory acne, lymphoma (cancer of the lymph system), or skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.

What does a cancerous lump look like?

A cancerous lump may feel firm or hard and will be in a fixed spot. (In other words, if you press on it, you will not be able to move it around.) A skin cancer appears as a shiny bump or nodule that’s clear, pink, red, white, tan, black, or brown. It may also be a spot that changes, is growing, or has irregular borders or contains multiple colors.

What are small hard lumps on the skin?

If found on the face, these lumps could be milia, which are tiny, harmless cysts (sometimes known as milk cysts) that usually go away on their own. If found on the body, these lumps may be dermatofibromas, which are small, benign, and usually painless skin growths that feel like a stone or a BB (a small metallic ball). These can show up on the lower legs, upper arms, or upper back, and are usually less than ½ inch in diameter. They will usually dimple when you gently squeeze them from the sides.

What does a skin nodule look like?

A skin nodule is defined as a raised bump in the skin that’s between 1 and 2 centimeters (cm).

When should you worry about a lump?

Talk to your doctor if you have a new lump, a preexisting lump that has changed (for example, it has a different texture than before), is growing, hard, or painful, or if it affects your activity in the area where it’s located.

Causes and Risk Factors of Skin Lumps

A “skin lump” is a specific symptom of a medical condition, so the cause behind it depends on exactly what the skin lump is.

Skin Tag

Alamy

These are skin-colored growths on the surface of the skin. (2) This bump is still worth mentioning here. These often appear in areas of irritation or where skin rubs together, like the neck or armpit, says Seminario-Vidal. These are benign. They’re more common after age 40, and can happen to anyone, but are more likely to appear on people who are obese, have diabetes, or have a family history. (3)

Cyst

Alamy

This is one of the most common causes of a skin lump, says Dr. Hartman, and they often appear on the face or back. “These are smooth and mobile, are oval with a defined border, and they aren’t entirely squishy, but they’re not firm and hard either,” she explains. The dead giveaway of a cyst is a lump that has a central pore in it. This happens when skin does not mature properly and folds into itself, forming the pore. (That said, not all cysts will have a visible pore, she says.) If infected, cysts might become red and painful or secrete fluid. If you suspect you have an infected cyst, seek medical care.

Wart

Dmitry Epov/Alamy

These are skin growths that are caused by the papillomavirus. (4) There are many different types of warts, and they are often located on the hands and feet. The most common type of wart has an almost cauliflower-like appearance.

Dermatofibroma

Alamy

These are benign nodules that may be found on the lower legs. (5) They look like a small, red raised bump and are firm and “rock-like.” They do not have a known cause. (6) If you pinch a dermatofibroma, it often appears to pucker inward, creating a small dimple. Rarely, a dermatofibroma may be a dermatofibrosarcoma, which is a type of skin cancer that looks like a cluster of lumps on the skin.

Lipoma

Christopher Marsh/Alamy

This skin lump is actually a benign tumor of fat that grows in the skin’s fat layer that can pop up anywhere on the body. “It can run in families, so there may be a genetic cause,” says Hartman. You’ll suspect a lipoma because it will be soft and mushy (it’s made of fat) and the edges won’t be well-defined. These are typically not painful.

Enlarged Lymph Node

Alamy

Lymph nodes are part of your body’s immune system and are located in certain parts of the body, such as your armpit, groin, or below your chin in your neck. These can get swollen if you get sick as immune cells congregate there and fight off an infection, says Hartman. Lymph nodes in your groin may also enlarge and become inflamed due to extreme exercise (such as participating in a long endurance event, like a marathon), adds Seminario-Vidal. If your lymph nodes feel or appear swollen, you should seek medical attention.

If you had an infection, lymph nodes shrink to their normal size after you get better. They should still feel smooth and mobile. However, a lymphoma, or cancer in the lymph node, may become firm or hard and fixed. There may also be other symptoms of cancer, like decreased appetite, weight loss, fever, and chills.

How Are Skin Lumps Diagnosed?

Your dermatologist can do a physical exam to diagnose your skin lump. If there’s something concerning (for example, a skin lump or bump is growing), then a biopsy will likely be recommended, says Seminario-Vidal. Depending on where the lump is located or how deep it is under the skin, a dermatologist can do the biopsy. In areas where skin is particularly thick, like the back, a plastic surgeon may have to open up the skin under local anesthesia, she says. (If extremely deep, general anesthesia may be used.)

Deeper lesions or potentially cancerous lumps may be evaluated with imaging first. This can be done with scans like computerized tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, or ultrasound. (7)

Prognosis of Skin Lumps

“When patients notice a lump, they’re often understandably concerned, but most of them are benign,” says Hartman.

Benign (noncancerous):

• Skin Tags (3)
• Cysts (8)
• Lipoma (9)
• Wart (4)
• Dermatofibroma (6)
• Enlarged lymph node, if caused by a viral infection, like the common cold

Possibly cancerous:

• An enlarged lymph node, if caused by lymphoma, or cancer of the lymph system (1)
• New, changing, itching, or bleeding spot, lesion, or bump on the skin, which could point to a nonmelanoma or melanoma skin cancer (10)

Cancerous:

• Dermatofibrosarcoma (6)

Duration of Skin Lumps

How long skin lumps stick around and recovery time completely depends on what has caused the skin lump, and whether it needs to be removed. For some issues, like skin tags, these stick around for life and typically do not need treatment unless they’re causing a problem (such as getting caught on clothing). An inflamed cyst (which may be red and painful) may shrink down over the course of a few days as inflammation subsides, but ultimately a cyst will need treatment if the patient would like to get rid of them permanently, says Hartman. Sometimes the area they are located in, such as the face, means that treatment could be more disfiguring than the cyst itself, and in those cases, she may suggest that patients leave the cyst alone. Lipomas are also typically not removed, adds Hartman, unless it is large, growing, or bothersome.

Treatment for Skin Lumps

Many skin lumps won’t go away on their own and require treatment. Often, however, the lump is not dangerous and it can be left alone if not bothersome. Here’s a look at the treatment for some of the more common causes of skin lumps:

Skin Tag Skin tags are benign, and they do not need to be removed. However, if a skin tag is removed, it may be taken off using one of three methods: snip excision, cautery, or cryosurgery. (3) (Cryosurgery is when your doctor will use a cold liquid, like liquid nitrogen, to freeze the skin tag.) (11) It’s important to know that you should not try to remove a skin tag on your own, as they can bleed when taken off.

Cyst To get rid of a cyst, you will need it removed, says Hartman. But first: Do not take matters into your own hands. “I tell people not to pop them. Squeezing it may press out keratin, but that does not get rid of the problem, and may make it worse by causing more inflammation,” she says. The wall, or lining, of the cyst needs to come out, too, which your doctor can do by cutting out the cyst. They won’t do this until inflammation has subsided. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Cysts can also be drained as a temporary solution; doctors can also give a cyst a steroid injection to help calm it.

Wart It may take quite a while (potentially years), but your wart will eventually disappear without treatment. (4) At home, you can use an over-the-counter wart removal kit. At the doctor’s office, you may get a wart frozen off with liquid nitrogen.

Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP) These are benign, but surgical removal is an option, according to StatPearls. (12) There is a rare skin cancer called a dermatofibrosarcoma, which develops in connective tissue in the dermal layer of skin and grows slowly. (13) Treating this type of skin cancer requires surgery, though radiation or targeted therapy drugs may also be used.

Lipoma If a patient has a lot of lipomas, doctors usually recommend not removing them, says Hartman. However, if the lipoma is large, growing, or bothersome, a doctor will cut out the lipoma. The minor procedure requires an injection to numb the area, but takes just 30 minutes, she says.

Enlarged Lymph Node You don’t need to treat an enlarged lymph node itself, but you’d treat the underlying cause. If lymph nodes are enlarged because you are sick with a viral infection like a cold, they should go back to their normal size once you recover, says Hartman. That said, if you find an enlarged lymph node that’s 1 centimeter (cm) or less, it’s soft, and you can move it around, that’s less concerning. Doctors may take a wait-and-see approach, and follow up to make sure it’s gone down, says Seminario-Vidal.

If you are diagnosed with lymphoma, then you will be treated appropriately for cancer, which may include chemotherapy, radiation, targeted drugs, and bone marrow transplant. (1)

Integrative and Complementary Approaches 

For many lumps, there is not much you can do at home. However, using a warm compress on a cyst that is red and angry can lessen inflammation to ease soreness, says Hartman.

When it comes to warts, there have been many alternative treatments suggested, some mainstream (duct tape), while others are more radical (distance healers that channel energy into the wart). None of the homeopathic remedies have been proven effective. (14)

Prevention of Skin Lumps

Many skin lumps, like lipomas, may have a genetic cause, says Hartman. That’s one reason why you won’t be able to take steps to actively prevent all skin lumps. In order to prevent skin lumps or bumps that would be a type of skin cancer, everyone should be wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 every day. (15) When it comes to cysts, you won’t be able to prevent them from forming, but make sure you do not try to “pop” it yourself to prevent infection and scarring. (16) Skin tags can’t always be prevented, as there are genetic causes, but controlling conditions that make them more likely (like diabetes) will discourage their formation. (3)

Complications of Skin Lumps

Most benign skin lumps are not harmful, says Hartman. However, skin tags, cysts, and lipomas can be bothersome if they’re located on visible areas (like the face), catch on clothing (like an unfortunately located skin tag), or become inflamed and tender (like a cyst). Trying to drain or remove a skin lump at home risks complications like bleeding or infection.

Research and Statistics: Who Has Skin Lumps, and How Common Are They?

“Skin lumps” are a common symptom. Here are some statistics related to various types:

Skin Tag Fifty to 60 percent of the general population have skin tags, with males and females being equal. (3)

Cyst Epidermoid cysts are most common in people who are in their thirties and forties, and occur twice as often in men versus women. (17)

Wart One-third of children and teenagers have warts, while just 3 to 5 percent of adults have warts. (18)

Dermatofibroma These are most common for people in their twenties, thirties, and forties, and may be more likely to occur in females. (12)

Lipoma One in every 1,000 people will develop a lipoma, according to Cleveland Clinic. (9) You can get them at any age, but they are more likely in adults aged 40 to 60.

Lymphoma Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is one of the most common cancers in the United States. (19) In 2020, about 77,240 people will be diagnosed with NHL. Men account for more diagnoses compared with women.

Resources We Love

Favorite Organizations for Essential Skin Lumps Info

American Academy of Dermatology

The AAD provides up-to-date information on skin, hair, and nail conditions, how to protect your skin from cancer, and caring for your skin at any age.

Skin Cancer Foundation

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. Get facts, statistics, prevention strategies, and treatments for nonmelanoma and melanoma skin cancer.

Skin of Color Society

Provides education for African Americans, Asians, Hispanics or Latinos, Native Indians, and Pacific Islanders on skin diseases and their causes. The organization also seeks to clear up misinformation on treatments for skin conditions.

American Cancer Society

Stay current on the types of cancer, their causes, treatments, and prognosis. Read about the latest in cancer research and breakthrough treatment. The organization also has a 24/7/365 live helpline when you need it.

Favorite App for Skin Lump Info

Aysa

Upload a photo of your skin concern via your smartphone and enter your symptoms. The app then gives a few possible matches of what it could be. It does not replace a visit with your dermatologist, but it can help make your internet search easier.

Favorite Online Program for Skin Lump Info

First Derm

Here’s an online portal where you can upload a photo of your skin concern, which gets sent to a board-certified dermatologist for review. (The fee starts at $29.95.) Someone will reply within 24 hours, and you’ll either have peace of mind about your lump, bump, or lesion, or you’ll be directed to an in-person dermatologist for more help.

Favorite Videos for Skin Lump Info

Dr. Sandra Lee (aka Dr. Pimple Popper) YouTube

The videos will definitely gross you out, but this board-certified dermatologist has nearly seven million subscribers to her YouTube channel. Dr. Pimple Popper extracts all types of cysts, lipomas, and acne lesions. If you can handle watching, it’ll provide insight as to what’s happening on your skin — and how it may be removed.

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

1. Lymphoma: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. December 14, 2022.
2. Skin Tags (Acrochordon). Harvard Health Publishing. March 19, 2019.
3. Pandey A, Sonthalia S. Skin Tags. StatPearls. August 1, 2022.
4. Warts. Johns Hopkins Medicine.
5. Dermatofibroma. DermNet NZ. September 2020.
6. Dermatofibroma. Harvard Health Publishing. January 9, 2019.
7. Tests for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. American Cancer Society. August 1, 2018.
8. Epidermoid Cysts: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. April 7, 2020.
9. Lipoma. Cleveland Clinic. October 13, 2020.
10. Skin Cancer: Everyone’s at Risk. American Academy of Dermatology.
11. Cryosurgery. National Cancer Institute.
12. Myers DJ, Fillman EP. Dermatofibroma. StatPearls. October 24, 2022.
13. Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer. Mayo Clinic. May 11, 2022.
14. What Are the Treatment Options for Warts? InformedHealth.org. November 7, 2019.
15. Skin Cancer Prevention. Skin Cancer Foundation.
16. Epidermoid Cysts of the Skin. Cedars Sinai.
17. Zito PM, Scharf R. Epidermoid Cyst. StatPearls. August 25, 2022.
18. Warts: Overview. InformedHelath.org. November 7, 2019.
19. Key Statistics for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. American Cancer Society. January 12, 2023.

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Lumps can form under the skin for many reasons, including cysts or swollen lymph nodes. You may want to contact a doctor for an exam if lumps change in size or appearance.

Lumps, bumps, or growths under your skin aren’t uncommon. A lump can form under your skin for many reasons.

Often, lumps are harmless (benign). Specific traits of the lump can sometimes tell you more about possible causes and whether you should contact a medical professional.

Read on to learn more about common causes of hard lumps under your skin and when it’s a good idea to have a lump checked out.

Language matters

You’ll notice that the language used to share stats and other data points is pretty binary, fluctuating between the use of “men” and “women.”

Although we typically avoid language like this, specificity is key when reporting on research participants and clinical findings.

Unfortunately, the studies and specialists referenced in this article didn’t report data on, or include, participants who were transgender, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, genderqueer, agender, or genderless.

Was this helpful?

Epidermoid cysts are small, round lumps under your skin. They usually develop when skin cells shed and move into your skin instead of falling off. Epidermoid cysts can also be due to hair follicle damage or a buildup of a protein called “keratin.”

Epidermoid cysts:

• grow slowly
• may not go away for years
• may have a small blackhead in the center of the bump
• can leak yellow, foul-smelling discharge (keratin)
• are usually painless but can become red and tender if infected

According to research, these cysts are also twice as common in men and typically don’t develop before puberty.

You can find these cysts anywhere on your body, but you’ll most often see them on your face, neck, or torso.

Learn more about epidermoid cysts.

Lipomas develop when fatty tissue grows under your skin, forming a bulge. These lumps are common and usually harmless. The exact cause of lipomas is unclear, but they may result from physical traumas.

Multiple lipomas can also sometimes be a symptom of an underlying genetic condition such as Gardner’s syndrome.

Lipomas:

• are most common in adults 40 to 60 years of age
• are rarely painful
• grow slowly
• feel rubbery
• may seem to move when you touch them

They can appear on any part of your body but most often appear on your shoulders, neck, torso, or armpits.

Learn more about the symptoms and causes of lipomas.

A dermatofibroma is a small, hard bump that grows under your skin. This skin lump is harmless, but it might sometimes itch or hurt.

Although it’s not clear what causes dermatofibromas, some people report having had splinters, insect bites, or other minor trauma at the spot where the lumps develop.

Dermatofibromas:

• range from dark pink to brown or black, depending on a person’s skin tone
• have a firm, rubbery feeling
• according to research, are more common in women
• tend to be no bigger than 1 centimeter (cm) across
• grow slowly

You can develop dermatofibromas anywhere, but they often appear on your lower legs and upper arms.

Discover more about dermatofibromas.

Keratoacanthoma (KA) is a small skin tumor that grows out of your skin cells. Sun exposure may play a part in KA development, as it’s more common in high-exposure areas such as your hands or face.

KA may look like a pimple at first but will grow larger over several weeks. The center of the lump can burst, leaving what looks like a crater.

These lumps:

• may itch or feel painful
• can grow up to 3 cm in just a few weeks
• have a core of keratin that may look like a horn or scale in the center of the bump
• are more common people with light skin and older adults

Learn more about keratoacanthomas (KAs).

A skin abscess is a round, pus-filled lump that develops when bacteria gets underneath your skin’s surface.

Bacterial infections are the most common cause of skin abscesses. Your body reacts to the bacteria by sending white blood cells to the infection site. As tissue around the area dies, a hole forms and pus fills the hole, which causes an abscess.

Abscesses:

• have a firm membrane surrounding them
• feel squishy due to pus
• may be painful
• may be surrounded by inflamed skin
• may feel warm to the touch
• may leak pus from a central pinprick-sized opening

Skin abscesses can develop anywhere on your body.

Learn more about their causes and treatments.

Lymph nodes or lymph glands are small groups of cells located in various parts of the body. The lymph nodes respond to infections by trapping infectious or damaged cells and helping to get rid of them.

As part of the body’s immune response, lymph nodes produce lymphocytes that can cause swelling in the nodes.

Some common reasons lymph nodes may swell include:

• bacterial infections such as mono or strep throat
• viral infections including the common cold
• tooth abscesses
• cellulitis or other skin infections
• immune system disorders

You may notice swelling at one or more sites including:

• under your chin
• in your groin
• on either side of your neck
• in your armpits

Learn more about the causes and symptoms of swollen lymph nodes.

A hernia is a lump that develops when part of your body, such as one of your organs, pushes through the surrounding tissue.

There are several types of hernias. They typically appear in the abdominal area (inguinal hernia), below your chest, or above your hips.

Symptoms of a hernia include:

• a bulge you can push in
• pain when you strain the area by coughing, laughing, or lifting something heavy
• a burning sensation
• a dull ache
• the sensation of fullness or heaviness at the hernia site

Discover everything there is to know about hernias.

A ganglion cyst is a small, round, fluid-filled lump that grows under the skin’s surface, usually on your hands. The cyst sits on a small stalk that may seem movable.

It’s not clear what causes ganglion cysts: They’re typically harmless, but irritation to your joints and tendons may play a part.

Ganglion cysts:

• are often painless but may cause tingling, numbness, or pain if they press on a nerve
• can grow slowly or quickly
• appear most often in people between 15 to 40 years of age
• according to specialists, appear most often in women
• are usually smaller than 2. 5 cm across

These cysts most often develop on wrist joints and tendons, but they can also develop on your palm or fingers.

Learn more about ganglion cysts.

Click through the gallery below to see pictures of the conditions mentioned in this article.

Lumps under the skin are very common and can have a range of causes. In many cases, lumps go away without treatment.

It’s not always possible to tell exactly what causes a lump. If you notice a lump under your skin, keep an eye on it. In general soft, movable lumps are harmless and will likely improve with time.

It’s a good idea to see a healthcare professional if you notice:

• skin discoloration, swelling, or pain
• pus or other fluid leaking from the lump
• tenderness or swelling in the surrounding area
• changes in color, shape, and size, especially with rapid or steady growth
• a high fever
• a lump that’s more than 1 cm across
• hard or painless lumps that appear suddenly

Last medically reviewed on May 31, 2023

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Diseases and conditions: Ganglion cyst of the wrist and hand. (2022).
  orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/ganglion-cyst-of-the-wrist-and-hand/
• Diseases and conditions: Lipoma. (2018).
  orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/lipoma
• Ganglion cyst. (2021).
  nhs.uk/conditions/ganglion/
• Hernia. (2022).
  nhs.uk/conditions/hernia/
• Inguinal hernia. (2019).
  niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/inguinal-hernia
• Keratoacanthoma. (n.d.).
  aocd.org/page/Keratoacanthoma
• Lymph nodes and cancer. (2021). 
  cancer.org/cancer/diagnosis-staging/lymph-nodes-and-cancer.html
• Myers, DJ, et al. (2022). Dermatofibroma. 
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470538/
• Overview: Abscess. (2019). 
  nhs.uk/conditions/abscess/
• The lymphatic system. (2021).
  lymphoma-action.org.uk/about-lymphoma-what-lymphoma/lymphatic-system
• Zito PM, et al. (2023). Epidermoid cyst. 
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499974/
• Zito PM, et al. (2023). Keratoacanthoma. 
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499931/

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

May 31, 2023

Written By

Crystal Raypole

Edited By

Tom Rush

Medically Reviewed By

Alana Biggers, MD, MPH

Copy Edited By

Maggie Hellwig

Mar 27, 2019

Written By

Crystal Raypole

Edited By

Kelly Morrell

Medically Reviewed By

Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN

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Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M.D., MPH — By Crystal Raypole — Updated on May 31, 2023

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Subcutaneous seals – General information, Causes. Tomsk

Symptoms and diseases

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General information

Subcutaneous lumps may occur spontaneously, such as in infectious diseases or inflammation of the lymph nodes, or from a blow. Numerous bumps and bumps on the skin, as well as single ones, can occur. Infections, tumors, the body’s reaction to injury or damage can all lead to swelling, lumps, or bumps on or under the skin.

Depending on the cause, the bumps can vary in size and be hard or soft to the touch. On the skin, the bump may be reddened or ulcerated. The lumps may be painful or painless, depending on the cause of the injury.

Causes

There are a lot of reasons for the appearance of various bumps on the skin and all of them are directly related to skin diseases:

• Lipoma (benign tumor of adipose tissue). The bump can be of any size (from a few millimeters to several centimeters). Usually painless, without discoloration of the skin, firm to the touch.
• Mole. The bump on the skin is soft, brown or black, absolutely painless.
• Skin cancer. A seal or bump can occur in various places on the body, have a different color (from normal to dark), soldered to the skin and surrounding tissues. Accompanied by soreness and suppuration in the later stages of its development.
• Enlarged lymph nodes. The lump is located above the lying lymph nodes, dense and hot to the touch, painful, the size is from a pea to a walnut, not soldered to the surrounding tissues. It is combined with the presence of infection in the body (temperature, intoxication).
• Intradermal cyst. The formation of various sizes, usually of a dense consistency, with unchanged skin color. It can periodically become inflamed, even with the release of the contents to the outside.
• Skin abscess. The lump is dense and painful, the skin above it is red and hot, there is pus inside. It is associated with an increase in body temperature.
• Hemangioma. It is a bump of red color, soft or dense consistency, painless.
• Warts. They are bumps or nodules of different sizes, painless or slightly painful. The skin above them may retain its natural color or take on red tones.
• Malignant tumors of superficial structures. These formations include basal cell carcinoma, soft tissue sarcoma, neurofibromatosis, etc. Bumps and seals can be from a few millimeters to tens of centimeters. At the beginning of the disease, they are painless and do not cause much distress to the patient. Later, they can become inflamed and decompose.
• Presence of foreign bodies. These are all kinds of fragments, bullets and other items. In this case, the bump depends on the size of the foreign body, often painful.
• Rheumatoid nodules. They are seals on the skin that absolutely do not manifest themselves. However, in addition to this, pain and deformity of the joints can be detected.

The appearance of palpable painful lumps – description, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Sometimes a person can find strange lumps on his body that have not been observed before. They can be quite harmless and will go away on their own in a few days. In the worst case, they are the body’s signals of disease. If you notice seals, you should immediately consult a doctor to find out their nature.

What are seals?

Lumps are usually lumps and accumulations of naturally occurring substances in the body (such as fat or lymph). Sometimes they are the initial step in the formation of tumors: both benign and malignant.

If the neoplasm that has arisen not only provokes pain, but is also accompanied by fever, general malaise, dizziness and other symptoms, then a medical examination should be carried out. It is also worth sounding the alarm when, after a few days, the seal does not go away, but only grows.

Usually lumps are found in the nose, on the earlobes, behind the ears. For starters, it is worth being examined by an otolaryngologist. After the initial examination, the patient may be referred to a surgeon or oncologist. But usually the treatment is carried out by an ENT specialist.

Causes of Painful Indurations

There are many causes for indurations. Before treatment, it is especially important to determine the exact cause of the neoplasm – only in this case the treatment will be effective and safe.

Seals are formed for the following reasons:

1. Activation and development of malignant processes in the tissues of the mucous membrane, soft tissues (usually manifested against the background of inflammation).
2. Inflammation of the lymph nodes – manifested by a seal behind the ear. Along with this, a person has symptoms of intoxication of the body.
3. Chronic diseases of the ears, nasopharynx, accompanied by inflammatory processes. They are characterized by seals in the ears or in the nose.
4. Blockage of the sebaceous gland, which leads to the impossibility of secreting fatty secretion to the surface of the skin and, as a result, the development of compaction.
5. Hormonal disorders in the body (thyroid diseases, for example) almost always lead to the appearance of neoplasms under the skin.
6. An increase in the volume of the lymphatic tissue of the adenoids – seals and bumps in the nose are detected.
7. Mechanical damage, which is accompanied by inflammatory processes inside the tissues. They can walk on their own.
8. Infection when creating tattoos, piercing ears, nose. The place turns red, inflames. Suppuration may occur.
9. The first stages of the formation of a boil.
10. Benign neoplasms and tumors – the problem is solved with specialists in the field of oncology.

To obtain an accurate result regarding the true cause of the appearance of neoplasms, it is necessary not only to undergo an initial examination and examination, but also to conduct appropriate tests.

Types of seals

Seals that appear in the area of ​​the ears or nose are usually divided into several types depending on the mechanism of formation. Incorrect determination of the true causes of compaction can lead to ineffectiveness of therapy and deterioration of the patient’s condition.

Atheroma

It is a seal that is formed as a result of blockage of the sebaceous gland. The pain syndrome is very weak and inexpressive. Atheroma can appear anywhere on the body, but in the vast majority of cases it affects the ear area and the skin next to the wings of the nose.

The seal feels like a miniature ball with liquid inside. When pressed, it overflows. The transition from this stage to a malignant form is impossible.

Lipoma

This formation is called a wen. Painful sensations appear with pressure on the place of occurrence.

It is quite large and is considered to be benign. Usually it remains so, but there is a small probability of transition to a tumor, therefore, if a wen is found, it is better to remove it.

Polyp

Polyps are benign growths that often occur in the nose. Painful manifestations are not observed. Outwardly, they resemble a pea or have the shape of a mushroom. It is observed 3.5 times more often in men than in women. Children are prone to polyps.

Among the symptoms are nasal congestion, mucous discharge, and ordinary drops from the common cold do not help. If left untreated, various diseases of the respiratory system are possible, as a person begins to breathe through his mouth.

Fibroma

It is a benign type of formation. Often observed in the nose – ossifying fibroma of the sinuses. To the touch, it is a hard bump, which consists of a combination of fibrous and bone tissue, as well as various secretions.

Usually inherited. The exact reasons for the appearance of this formation is unknown. Removal is performed surgically. It is recommended to carry it out as early as possible to prevent possible complications.

Lymphadenitis

Forming seal behind the ear usually indicates inflammatory processes in the lymph node. The resulting neoplasm is quite painful, accompanied by skin itching and inflammation. In most cases, there are signs of poisoning of the body – the body temperature rises, general malaise, dizziness and pain appear. Due to itching, many begin to comb the seal, which leads to complications.

In the acute course of the disease, antibiotic therapy, UHF therapy, vitamin complexes are prescribed. If suppuration is observed, then the seal is opened, the pus is removed and disinfected.

To cure chronic lymphadenitis, you need to get rid of the underlying disease that provokes inflammation of the lymph nodes.

Mastoiditis

The main reason for the formation of a painful induration behind the ear is untreated otitis media. The resulting fluid from the infection enters the pores of the bone, which leads to the appearance of a solid neoplasm, which gradually grows. A person’s body temperature rises, a general malaise appears.

For treatment, a conservative method is usually used – various antibiotics in combination with antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs. An operation is necessary in case of an acute course of the disease.

Malignant tumors

They are manifestations of various diseases accompanied by oncological complications. The resulting seals are painful, characterized by a rapid increase. Often they have a grayish or greenish tint, which indicates their malignancy.

An unpleasant odor may occur. It requires urgent medical attention and prompt treatment. With timely treatment, the prognosis is favorable.

Furuncle

Due to certain disturbances in the body, a furuncle begins to die and fester. It is caused by pathogenic microbes that continue to be active against the background of a weakened immune system as a result of diseases.

Painful induration in the nose gradually turns into an abscess, discharge, bumps and a characteristic odor appear. Requires urgent medical attention to prevent complications.

Bruised marks

Bruised lumps are common. Even without treatment, they pass in a week or two. To accelerate healing, the use of ointments is recommended. There is a slight swelling and pain when pressed.

The damaged area usually takes on a bluish tint due to the destruction of blood vessels.

Consequences of a tick bite

If the bitten tick was removed incorrectly, as a result of which its head remained at the site of the bite under the skin, suppuration may occur in the tissues during their overgrowth. There is a painful seal that can increase. It is urgent to see a doctor to prevent its spread and blood poisoning.

Whatever the seal may be, it is worth having it checked out by a specialist. At its core, it is only a sign of dangerous processes in the body or diseases. Seals rarely pass without medical assistance (the only exceptions are formations resulting from bruises).

Diagnosis

If a lump is found, an otolaryngologist should be consulted, as neoplasms affect the ears and nose. The doctor conducts an initial examination and palpation of the problem area. If a possible cause is clarified, then the specialist puts forward a presumptive diagnosis. To confirm or refute it, it will be necessary to pass the appropriate tests and undergo examinations.