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Shafali Khanom
April 22, 2026

10 Common Skin Lumps – When to Worry and When to See a Doctor

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10 Common Skin Lumps  – When to Worry and When to See a Doctor

Your skin is your body’s largest organ – keeping an eye on any changes can help spot problems early 

1. Lipoma

Soft, fatty lump under the skin that moves slightly when pressed.

When to worry: If it grows fast or becomes painful.

2. Sebaceous cyst 

Smooth, round lump filled with fluid or pus, often with a central dot.

When to worry: If it gets red, swollen, or leaks.

3. Skin Tag

Small, soft flap of skin, often on the nect or underarms.

When to worry: Rarely a concern, unless it bleeds or grows.

4. Basal cell carcinoma

Shiny or pearly bump, may scab or bleed but not heal.

When to worry: Always needs a GP review.

5. Dermatofibroma

Firm, small bump, usually on legs, that feels like a button under the skin.

When to worry: If it bleeds or changes in colour.

6. Ganglion cyst

Round lump near joints or tendons, usually on the wrist or ankle.

When to worry: If it hurts or affects movement.

7. Keratoacanthoma

Fast-growing dome-shaped lump, often with a central crater.

When to worry: Always check with a GP.

8. Pillar cyst

Smooth lump on the scalp, often from a hair follicle.

When to worry: If it becomes painful or infected.

9. Melanoma

Dark, uneven mole or lump that may grow or change shape.

When to worry: Always urgent – get checked straight away.

10. Enlarged lymph node

Firm lump under the skin, often in neck, armpit, or groin.

When to worry: If it stays over 2 weeks or keeps growing.

Summary

If you notice a new lump, or one that changes in size, shape or colour, don’t wait – contact your GP for a check-up.

 

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