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Lump in Scalp

In many cases, lumps can be caused on the scalp as a symptom of different health conditions. Mostly, these lumps indicate clogged hair follicles or an allergic reaction., which could be a cause of concern in most cases. If there is a lump in scalp caused by a cyst or acne, it can become infected. 

Sometimes, lumps can be caused also due to cancer. They can be traced to an event such as a brain injury. In some cases, it can be as simple as pimples on the scalp that are common as acne on other body parts. It is better to consult a doctor to get the condition treated. 

Symptoms of lump in scalp 

If you face a lump in scalp, then you might experience any of the following symptoms. 

• Small itchy lumps: If you have a small lump in scalp, then it could be caused due to dandruff, lice or hives. 
• Small red lumps: Sometimes, there can be a painful lump in scalp and this can be a symptom of skin cancer or scalp acne. These conditions can be treated with proper care. 
• Large scalp patches: If you are facing a condition called scalp psoriasis, then you might have large scaly patches that have small bumps. 
• Painful lump: Sometimes, you might get painful lumps on your scalp that ooze or have pus. This can be caused due to the condition called folliculitis. 

Causes 

Sebaceous Cyst: Sebaceous Cyst is a yellow or white lump on the scalp or any part of the body. These cysts are mostly harmless and do not hurt. However, it is important to keep an eye on these for signs of infections. Sebaceous cysts are dome-like, protein-filled,  slow-growing, white or yellow lumps. When squeezed, a punctum will appear and the fluid within it called sebum will come out. Mostly, these cysts are malignant (cancerous). Large lump in scalp, especially sebaceous cysts can result in hair loss. In that case, these cysts are removed via any of the several methods including minimal excision, punch excision, and laser-aided excision. 

Benign cyst: The benign cyst is a common type of cyst. Benign cyst or pilar cyst is also called epidermoid cysts. These cysts occur when there is clogged hair follicle. Such cysts can develop anywhere on the body but are commonly seen on the scalp. They get larger with time and if there are hair follicles all over the body, then these cysts can be seen on the face, neck, chest, and back. These benign cysts on the scalp can be irritating but not too harmful. However, some benign cysts could be tumors that are formed within the body. These tumors can be cancerous or malignant. Not all cysts are the same as tumors.  

Treatment Options:

Surgical removal under local anesthesia

In some cases, the pilar cysts or benign cysts can heal without any treatment, provided you do not damage the skin in the affected area. To remove a lump in your scalp, you will have to approach a surgeon. Usually, it is possible to remove the cyst easily but it might reappear even after removal. 

If there is discomfort due to the lump, then the doctor might have to be removed. To remove it via surgery, the doctor might use a local anesthesia. There are two methods followed for this. 

Firstly, the surgeon will make a small cut in the skin, which will help drain the fluid in the lump. The second option is to remove the entire lump without making any cut into it. 

Usually, the procedure of removing a lump in the scalp does not require you to stay overnight at the hospital or clinic. The surgeon will apply a dressing on the area where the lump was removed. It is recommended not to make this dressing wet and be cautious while touching the specific area.