Finding a new lump or bump on the head can be a cause for concern, but in most cases, it's nothing to worry about. However, it's always a good idea to have any lump or bump checked out by a GP. They can assess the situation, provide advice on symptom management, and refer you to appropriate treatment if necessary.
Bumps on the scalp can result from various health issues, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, pilar cysts, hives, or ringworm. Some causes of bumps, such as skin cancer, require urgent medical attention. But often, a person can address the issue at home.
While finding a new lump or bump on the head can be worrying, in most cases they're usually harmless. However, it's always worth getting any lump or bump checked out by a GP, as they'll be able to assess and advise how best to manage your symptoms and, in case of malignancy, refer you to the correct treatment.
Osteomas are benign head tumors made of bone. They're usually found in the head or skull, but they can also be found in the neck. While osteomas are not cancerous, they can sometimes cause headaches, sinus infections, hearing issues or vision problems – however, many benign osteomas don't require treatment at all.
Most people have slight bumps and ridges in their skulls, and some are born with a dent in their head. However, a new dent or hollow may be due to trauma or a health condition, such as Gorham's disease. A dent in the head, especially if it is new, requires a trip to the doctor to determine the cause.
The gaps between the plates allow for growth of the skull. The places where these plates connect are called sutures or suture lines. They do not fully close until the 2nd or 3rd year of life. A metopic ridge occurs when the 2 bony plates in the front part of the skull join together too early.
Mild head bumps will likely heal on their own, however, a severe head injury, a head bump with significant symptoms, or a concussion are all reasons to talk to a doctor sooner rather than later.
Osteomas are benign bony outgrowths (new bone growth) mostly found on the skull and facial bones. If the bone tumor grows on another bone, it is called homoplastic osteoma. If it grows on tissue, it is called eteroplastic osteoma.
Changes in your head and neck skin are the most obvious signs of skin cancers of the head and neck, such as new growths, sores that don't heal, or changes in existing moles (size, shape, color). BCCs often look like flesh-colored round growths, pearly bumps, or pinkish patches of skin.
Osteoid osteomas may go away on their own. But these tumors may not disappear for years.
Probably not. Head trauma from play or sports is a common concern for parents, but rarely does a bump on the head result in serious injury. The forehead and scalp have a large blood supply. Injury to these areas often results in bleeding under the skin.
A cancerous lump is usually hard, not soft or squishy. And it often has angular, irregular, asymmetrical edges, as opposed to being smooth, Dr. Comander says. In order for you to feel a cancerous lump, it probably has to be rather large and closer to the surface of the skin.
Pilar cysts are relatively rare benign cysts that grow from your hair follicles. Most pilar cysts surface on your scalp (head), but they can appear on your face, neck, arms and legs. Pilar cysts are sometimes called trichilemmal cysts or wens. Healthcare providers use surgery to remove cysts.
Finding a new lump or bump on the head can be a cause for concern, but in most cases, it's nothing to worry about. However, it's always a good idea to have any lump or bump checked out by a GP. They can assess the situation, provide advice on symptom management, and refer you to appropriate treatment if necessary.
The cause of lipomas isn't fully understood. They tend to run in families, so genetic factors likely play a role in their development.
They can feel firm or soft. Benign masses are more likely to be painful to the touch, such as with an abscess. Benign tumors also tend to grow more slowly, and many are smaller than 5 cm (2 inches) at their longest point. Sarcomas (cancerous growths) more often are painless.
Skin cancer on the scalp may look like a mole, an ulcer, a sore, or another type of growth. Growths on the scalp can change in shape, color, or size and may itch or bleed, which may be concerning for skin cancer. Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type and severity of the cancer.
Bumps are rarely caused by tumors. Most bumps on the head are benign and easily treatable. The most severe types of bumps are those that can get infected or ones that are signs of a neurological problem or brain damage.
There may be a lot of inflammation around the tumor and the soft tissue around the tumor may be painful or swollen. Sometimes even a lump may be felt.
See a GP if:
your lump gets bigger. your lump is painful, red or hot. your lump is hard and does not move. your lump lasts more than 2 weeks.
Emerman says patients who've suffered a head injury should visit the Emergency Department immediately if they: Lost consciousness or became confused/disoriented after they were injured. Suffered the injury at a high speed (car or bike accident, a steep fall, etc.) Are vomiting or feel nauseated.
There are many reasons a lump may develop on the head or neck, with one of the most common causes being an increase in the size of a lymph node. We have many lymph nodes both under the skin and in the deep areas of the neck, and they are part of our immune system.
Most times, a goose egg on the head is nothing to worry about. But if a bump to the head is more than minor, it may cause a concussion or traumatic brain injury. You should head to the nearest ER when: A head blow or knock to the head causes unconsciousness, confusion, or disorientation.