Dark lump on breast skin: what to know

A lump that looks dark may arise in the skin, around a hair follicle, or deeper in breast tissue. Irritation, inflammation, a blocked gland, or a bruise can alter the surface. A breast lump is a common presentation of breast cancer, but a dark appearance does not establish that diagnosis and many breast changes have other explanations.

Pay attention to whether the area is painful, warm, swollen, firm, fixed, growing, or leaking fluid. Also note dimpling, an inward-pulling nipple, a new nipple change, or a lump in the armpit. These details help a clinician decide whether examination, imaging, or a sample is needed.

Do not squeeze, pierce, scrub, or repeatedly check the lump, as this can irritate the skin. Take a private note of when it appeared and whether its size, colour, tenderness, or surface has changed. Arrange an appointment for any new lump, especially if it persists or changes. Mention recent injury, breastfeeding, skin conditions, medicines, and family history when you attend.

Seek prompt medical care if the breast becomes rapidly red, hot, swollen, or very painful, if you develop fever, or if there is bloody or pus-like discharge. A rapidly enlarging lump, marked skin dimpling, a newly inverted nipple, or a new armpit lump also needs timely assessment. If you feel severely unwell, seek emergency help.

Ask whether the lump appears to be in the skin or breast tissue, what features need investigation, and whether imaging or sampling is recommended. Ask how soon you should return if it changes and which symptoms should trigger earlier review.