About this symptom
A lump beneath the skin may feel soft and mobile, firm, painful or entirely painless. Its appearance and feel cannot determine whether it is a lipoma, a cyst or another condition.
What matters most
Common possibilities include lipomas, epidermal cysts, enlarged lymph nodes, changes after injury and local inflammation. Some less common growths need further evaluation, especially if they continue to enlarge.
Symptoms and reasons to seek help
Record when the lump appeared and whether its size, mobility, shape or overlying skin has changed. A new, persistent or enlarging lump should be shown to a clinician, even if it causes no pain.
How it differs from similar conditions
A painless lump is not automatically harmless, and firmness alone does not indicate cancer. Cysts, fatty growths and abscesses can resemble one another, but their management differs.
Assessment and investigations
The clinician examines the skin and lump and asks about its history. Soft-tissue ultrasound or another targeted study may be appropriate when the diagnosis or extent remains unclear.
Care options and limitations
Observation, treatment of inflammation or removal are considered according to the diagnosis. Do not squeeze, puncture or cut a lump yourself; these actions can cause infection and tissue damage.
When emergency help is needed
Spreading redness, rapidly increasing swelling, high fever, severe pain or a major decline in general condition requires urgent medical evaluation. If seriously unwell, call 103 or 112.
Related information
Enlarged lymph nodes; Unexplained weight loss; Clinical oncology consultation.
Signs and symptoms
Record when the lump appeared and whether its size, mobility, shape or overlying skin has changed. A new, persistent or enlarging lump should be shown to a clinician, even if it causes no pain.
Diagnosis and tests
The clinician examines the skin and lump and asks about its history. Soft-tissue ultrasound or another targeted study may be appropriate when the diagnosis or extent remains unclear.
Care and treatment approaches
Observation, treatment of inflammation or removal are considered according to the diagnosis. Do not squeeze, puncture or cut a lump yourself; these actions can cause infection and tissue damage.
When to seek urgent care
Spreading redness, rapidly increasing swelling, high fever, severe pain or a major decline in general condition requires urgent medical evaluation. If seriously unwell, call 103 or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Does a firm lump necessarily mean cancer?
No. Many conditions can cause a firm lump; an examination and sometimes additional tests are needed to identify it.
Can I massage or squeeze the swelling?
Avoid this before the cause is known, particularly if the area is painful or inflamed, because it may worsen injury or infection.
When is an ultrasound useful?
Ultrasound may help define size, depth and structure when examination alone does not establish what the lump is.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
