What should you know about a skin cancer lump?

Skin lumps include growths within the skin, under the skin, or arising from a hair follicle. Some are harmless cysts, inflamed spots, or [Boils](/conditions/boils/). A cancerous growth may be a firm, shiny, scaly, crusted, bleeding, or slowly enlarging area; it may also resemble a sore that does not heal. These features overlap, so a lump is not proof of cancer.

A dermatologist may examine its surface and surrounding skin, feel its edges, and recommend a biopsy when the diagnosis is uncertain. The laboratory result identifies the cell type and guides treatment.

Arrange a clinical review for a new lump, a changing lump, or a growth that repeatedly crusts or bleeds. Photographing it beside a familiar object can help you describe change, while avoiding picking, squeezing, or home removal reduces irritation. You can read more about [Skin Lumps](/symptoms/skin-lumps/) and [Basal Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/). Treatment depends on the diagnosis and location; options may include removal or a medicine applied or delivered into the lesion. An intralesional steroid injection is used for selected inflammatory lesions, not as a way to diagnose cancer.

Book a dermatology appointment promptly if the lump is growing, changing colour or texture, repeatedly bleeding, painful, or not healing. Seek urgent medical help for uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly spreading redness with fever, or severe pain with swelling. A stable, painless lump still deserves review if it is new or unexplained.

Ask: Does this need a biopsy? What other causes fit its appearance? If a biopsy is advised, how will the area be cared for afterward? What changes should prompt an earlier review?