Knots under the skin are palpable lumps varying in size, texture, and cause. While many are harmless, some indicate underlying health issues. This article provides general information on common types and characteristics that might warrant medical attention.
Common Types of Lumps Under the Skin
Muscle knots, or myofascial trigger points, are common palpable lumps. They feel like tight, tender bands within muscle tissue, often described as a small, hard pea or marble. Found in areas like the neck, shoulders, and upper back, they can cause localized or referred pain.
Lipomas are soft, movable lumps that grow slowly just beneath the skin. These fatty tumors feel rubbery or doughy and are usually painless. They can appear anywhere on the body where fat cells are present, often remaining small but sometimes growing several centimeters.
Epidermoid cysts are firm, round lumps from blocked hair follicles or oil glands. They often have a small, dark central pore and can excrete a thick, cheesy, foul-smelling substance if ruptured. Commonly found on the face, neck, trunk, and scrotum, they are usually benign but can become inflamed or infected.
Swollen lymph nodes present as palpable, small, tender, movable lumps. Part of the immune system, they enlarge in response to infections, inflammation, or less commonly, cancer. They are most often felt in the neck, armpits, or groin, ranging from pea to grape size.
Fibromas, benign fibrous growths, might be felt as small, firm bumps under the skin. A hematoma, a collection of blood, can be felt as a firm or spongy lump after injury, changing color as it heals. These are temporary and resolve on their own.
Characteristics of Concerning Lumps
Rapidly increasing size over weeks or months is a concerning characteristic. Such growth suggests an active process warranting prompt medical evaluation. This distinguishes it from slow-growing benign lumps like lipomas.
Consistently painful, tender, or unusually warm lumps might indicate inflammation, infection, or a serious condition. While some benign lumps can be tender, persistent or worsening pain is a red flag. Redness of the overlying skin may also accompany this.
Changes in the overlying skin are important indicators. This includes discoloration, dimpling or puckering like an orange peel, or developing an ulceration. These changes suggest potential involvement of the skin layers by the underlying mass.
Lumps fixed to underlying tissues, rather than freely movable, or those with an irregular, ill-defined shape and a hard, stony texture, warrant caution. Benign lumps, like lipomas or swollen lymph nodes, often feel mobile and well-defined, contrasting with more serious growths.
Accompanying systemic symptoms are a significant warning sign. These might include unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, night sweats, or fatigue. Such symptoms suggest the lump could be part of a broader systemic illness.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Seek medical attention for any new lump, or an existing lump that changes in size, shape, or texture. Any lump that becomes painful, tender, or exhibits concerning characteristics warrants professional medical opinion. Early evaluation provides reassurance or facilitates timely intervention.
A healthcare professional performs a physical examination, assessing the lump’s size, consistency, mobility, and any associated skin changes. They will inquire about your medical history and other symptoms. This initial assessment helps determine the most appropriate next steps.
Based on clinical findings, the doctor may recommend diagnostic tests to identify the lump’s nature. These can include imaging studies like ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans to visualize the lump’s internal structure. In some cases, a biopsy, taking a tissue sample for analysis, may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.