Skin lumps are abnormal swellings or growths that appear beneath or on the skin’s surface. They can vary in size, texture, and appearance, with some being soft and movable, while others are firm and fixed. Many skin lumps are benign and harmless, but certain types may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.
Lumps may develop due to factors such as cyst formation, fat accumulation, infections, inflammatory responses, or abnormal cell growth.
Types of Skin Lumps
Skin lumps can be broadly categorised based on their causes and characteristics:
Benign fatty tumours (lipomas) – lipomas are soft, painless, slow-growing lumps made of fat cells, commonly found on the neck, shoulders, arms, or thighs. Essentially, lipomas can occur in any part of the body that contains adipose tissue.
Cysts (Epidermoid & Sebaceous cysts) – fluid- or keratin-filled sacs that form under the skin due to blocked sebaceous glands or hair follicles. These cysts can sometimes become inflamed or infected.
Fibrous growths (Dermatofibromas) – small, firm, reddish-brown nodules that develop due to minor skin injuries. They are usually harmless and don’t require treatment unless they become bothersome.
Swollen lymph nodes – enlarged lymph nodes often result from infections, inflammation, or, in certain cases, malignancies. They are most commonly found in the neck, armpits, or groin.
Abscesses and boils – painful, pus-filled lumps caused by bacterial infections. These require drainage and, in some cases, antibiotics to resolve.
Warts and skin tags – warts are small, rough skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), while skin tags are soft, flesh-coloured protrusions that commonly appear in areas of friction, such as the neck or underarms.
Keloids – raised, thickened scars that extend beyond the original wound site due to excessive collagen production. Keloids can grow over time and may cause discomfort or itching.
Haemangiomas – clusters of abnormal blood vessels that create red or purple lumps on the skin. While most are harmless, some may require treatment if they grow or cause complications.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema-Related Nodules) – chronic inflammation of the skin can lead to thickened, scaly, or raised patches that may feel like lumps. These occur due to an overactive immune response and are often itchy and irritated.
Malignant skin lumps (skin cancers) – skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, may present as lumps that grow, change color, or bleed. Early detection and treatment are critical for managing malignant growths.
Skin lumps, such as sebaceous cysts are non-cancerous, fluid-filled lumps that form when sebaceous glands become blocked, often appearing on the face, neck, or torso.
Abnormal cell growth — One common cause is abnormal cell growth, where fat cells, connective tissue, or skin cells multiply excessively, leading to lumps such as lipomas and dermatofibromas. In these cases, the body produces more cells than necessary, creating a localised growth that may feel soft or firm.
Glandular blockages — Another cause is glandular blockages, which occur when hair follicles or sebaceous glands become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, or keratin. This leads to the formation of cysts, such as epidermoid and sebaceous cysts, which are often enclosed in a protective capsule under the skin.
Infections and inflammation — Infections can also result in skin lumps, particularly when bacteria invade a hair follicle or sebaceous gland, triggering an immune response. The body sends white blood cells to fight the infection, leading to the formation of pus-filled lumps like boils or abscesses.
Viral infections, such as warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), stimulate excessive skin cell growth, creating rough, raised lumps. In some cases, the immune system itself causes swelling, as seen in enlarged lymph nodes. When the body detects an infection or inflammation, lymph nodes produce more immune cells, leading to a noticeable lump under the skin.
Haemangiomas — Additionally, changes in blood vessels and connective tissues can contribute to lump formation. Haemangiomas occur when blood vessels grow abnormally, forming red or purple lumps, while keloids develop due to excessive collagen production in response to skin injuries, creating thick, raised scars.
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which triggers excessive skin cell growth, leading to rough, raised lumps on the skin.
What are the symptoms of skin lumps?
Skin lumps can present with a range of symptoms depending on their cause, location, and underlying condition. While some lumps remain small and symptom-free, others may cause discomfort or noticeable changes. Common symptoms include:
Size and shape changes – lumps may remain stable, grow gradually, or change in shape over time.
Texture variations – some lumps feel soft and movable, while others are firm, hard, or fixed to deeper tissues.
Pain or tenderness – certain lumps, such as abscesses or inflamed cysts, can be painful or tender to the touch.
Redness or discolouration – infected or vascular lumps may appear red, purple, or darker than the surrounding skin.
Swelling or warmth – inflammatory or infectious lumps often cause localised swelling and may feel warm.
Itching or irritation – some lumps, like keloids or eczema-related nodules, can be itchy or irritated.
Fluid discharge – cysts and abscesses may release pus, blood, or oily fluid if they rupture or become infected.
Ulceration or bleeding – certain skin cancers or aggressive growths may ulcerate, break open, or bleed.
Skin lumps may cause redness, swelling, tenderness, and pus formation, especially if they result from an infection or abscess.
When should I be worried about a skin lump?
Some skin lumps are harmless, such a skin tag or scar tissue. However, there are instances that warrant a visit to your doctor. Some red flags to look out for include:
Rapid growth — a lump that increases in size quickly over days or weeks could be a sign of an infection, cyst, or even a malignant growth. While some benign tumours grow fast, rapid enlargement should always be evaluated by a doctor.
Pain or tenderness — painful lumps may be caused by infections, abscesses, or inflamed cysts. If the lump is warm, red, or tender to the touch, it may indicate an underlying infection that requires antibiotics or drainage. In some cases, painful lumps could be associated with inflammatory conditions or even certain types of cancer.
Hard or fixed in place — a soft lump that moves under the skin when pressed is often less concerning. However, a lump that feels hard, firm, or immobile could suggest a deeper issue, such as a malignant tumour or a cyst attached to surrounding tissues. Fixed lumps should be evaluated promptly.
Irregular shape or borders — lumps with uneven or jagged edges may be a cause for concern, particularly when they are growing or changing over time. Cancerous lumps tend to have irregular shapes rather than smooth, round contours.
Skin changes surrounding the lump — any lump that is accompanied by changes in colour, ulceration, bleeding, or the appearance of scaly patches may indicate a more serious condition. Darkening or reddening over the lump, or the development of sores that do not heal, could suggest a malignant process.
Prolonged presence (more than a few weeks) — a lump that persists for more than a few weeks or continues to grow warrants medical evaluation. Benign lumps like lipomas or cysts may remain unchanged for years, but persistent changes or non-healing lumps should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Lump under the armpit, groin, or neck — lumps in these areas could indicate swollen lymph nodes, which are often a response to infections, autoimmune conditions, or, in rare cases, cancers like lymphoma. If the swelling persists for more than a few weeks, or is accompanied by fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, medical attention is necessary.
Accompanied by other symptoms — if the lump is associated with systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or difficulty swallowing, it may indicate an underlying illness. Persistent fatigue or night sweats alongside a lump could suggest an immune response to an infection or malignancy.
Who is at risk of skin lumps in Singapore?
Skin lumps can develop in anyone, but certain factors increase the likelihood of their occurrence. In Singapore’s climate and environment, some individuals may be more prone to specific types of skin lumps due to lifestyle, genetics, and medical conditions. Common risk factors include:
Genetic predisposition – a family history of lipomas, cysts, keloids, or skin cancers increases the risk.
Chronic skin conditions – individuals with eczema, psoriasis, or other inflammatory skin conditions may develop lumps due to prolonged irritation or immune responses.
Frequent sun exposure – prolonged UV exposure raises the risk of skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Infections and poor wound healing – those prone to bacterial infections, acne, or slow wound healing may develop abscesses, boils, or cysts.
Skin trauma or surgery – cuts, burns, or surgical procedures can trigger keloid formation in susceptible individuals.
Weakened immune system – people with compromised immunity, such as diabetics or those on long-term immunosuppressive therapy, may be more vulnerable to infections that cause lumps.
Occupational and environmental exposure – regular exposure to chemicals, irritants, or pollutants may increase the risk of developing certain skin growths.
While many skin lumps are benign, those at higher risk should seek medical evaluation if they notice any persistent or changing lumps.
How are skin lumps diagnosed?
At Alpine Surgical Practice, Dr. Aaron Poh utilises a thorough and personalised approach to diagnosing skin lumps. An accurate diagnosis is essential to determine whether a lump is benign or requires further medical attention. Depending on the lump’s characteristics, Dr. Poh may use the following diagnostic methods:
Clinical examination – a detailed assessment of the lump’s size, texture, mobility, and appearance to determine its nature.
Medical history review – understanding the patient’s symptoms, lifestyle, and family history to identify possible causes.
Ultrasound imaging – a non-invasive scan that provides real-time images to assess the composition of the lump, whether it contains fluid, fat, or solid tissue.
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) – a minimally invasive procedure where a thin needle is used to extract a small sample of cells for further analysis.
Core biopsy – a slightly larger tissue sample is taken using a hollow needle, which provides a more detailed evaluation of abnormal growths.
Excisional biopsy – in cases where the nature of the lump is uncertain or if removal is necessary, Dr. Poh may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove the lump for laboratory testing.
Blood tests – specific blood markers may be checked if there is suspicion of infection, inflammation, or underlying systemic conditions.
Dermatoscopy – a specialised tool is used to examine pigmented or unusual lumps closely, particularly if skin cancer is a concern.
Every case is different, and at Alpine Surgical Practice, we ensure that each patient receives an accurate diagnosis with the most appropriate testing methods. Dr. Aaron Poh carefully evaluates each lump to provide the best course of action for effective treatment and peace of mind.
What are the treatment options for skin lumps?
At Alpine Surgical Practice, Dr. Aaron Poh tailors treatment plans based on the type, size, and underlying cause of the skin lump. While some lumps require no intervention, others may need medical or surgical treatment for relief, cosmetic concerns, or to rule out serious conditions. Depending on the diagnosis, Dr. Poh may recommend the following treatment options:
Observation and monitoring – for benign, asymptomatic lumps, Dr. Poh may advise regular monitoring to ensure there are no concerning changes.
Medications – in cases of infected or inflammatory lumps, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or topical treatments may be prescribed.
Aspiration or drainage – fluid-filled lumps, such as cysts or abscesses, can be drained using a fine needle or small incision to relieve discomfort and prevent infection.
Steroid injections – for conditions like keloids or inflammatory nodules, corticosteroid injections can help reduce size, swelling, and discomfort.
Laser or radiofrequency treatment – certain skin lumps, such as vascular lesions or warts, may respond well to laser or radiofrequency ablation.
Surgical excision – for larger, painful, or suspicious lumps, Dr. Poh may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove the lump completely, often under local anaesthesia.
Histopathological examination – if there is any concern about malignancy, the removed lump is sent for lab analysis to determine its nature.
At Alpine Surgical Practice, we prioritise patient-centred care and make sure that every treatment is suited to individual needs. Dr. Aaron Poh carefully evaluates each case to provide the most effective and minimally invasive solution for managing skin lumps.
If you are concerned about a skin lump and want a professional assessment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Aaron Poh for detailed diagnosis and personalised treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can skin lumps be prevented?
While not all skin lumps can be prevented, maintaining good skin hygiene, protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure, and promptly treating infections can reduce the risk of developing certain types of lumps.
Are skin lumps contagious?
Most skin lumps are not contagious. However, lumps caused by infections, such as warts (caused by the human papillomavirus), can be spread through direct contact or shared personal items.
Do skin lumps go away on their own?
Some skin lumps, like certain cysts or lipomas, may remain unchanged for years without causing issues. Others, particularly those resulting from infections, might resolve with appropriate treatment. It’s essential to monitor any lump for changes and consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.
Can skin lumps reoccur after treatment?
Yes, some skin lumps can recur after treatment, especially if the underlying cause isn’t fully addressed. For instance, cysts may return if their sac isn’t completely removed. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider can help manage and monitor any recurrence.
What is the difference between lumps and bumps?
Lumps are usually larger, deeper, and may be firm, while bumps are typically small, superficial, and may be caused by irritation, insect bites, or minor skin conditions.
Can stress cause skin lumps?
Stress itself does not directly cause lumps, but it can trigger conditions like hives or exacerbate underlying skin issues, which may lead to temporary swellings.
What do cancerous lumps feel like?
Cancerous lumps are often hard, irregular in shape, immovable, and painless in the early stages, unlike benign lumps, which are typically soft and mobile.
