Small lump on hand under the skin: what to know

A smooth, rounded lump that shifts slightly may be a fluid-filled cyst near a joint or tendon. A tender, warm, red swelling can occur with irritation or an infected hair follicle; see our guide to [Boils](/conditions/boils/). A firm growth that slowly changes may need an examination to identify its tissue of origin. A lump is a presentation of [Skin Lumps](/symptoms/skin-lumps/), not a diagnosis by itself. Skin cancer can occur on exposed skin, but a hand lump does not by itself establish [Basal Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/).

Note when you first noticed it, whether it moves with a finger or wrist, and whether gripping changes the discomfort. Photographing the surface can help you compare changes. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing or puncturing it, and reduce repeated pressure if that aggravates it. A clinician can examine the skin and hand movement, then decide whether observation, imaging, drainage, removal, or another approach fits. For selected inflammatory lesions, a [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/) may be discussed, but it is not suitable for every lump.

Arrange medical review if the lump persists, grows, returns, limits movement, or becomes painful. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, numbness, weakness, or sudden swelling after an injury. Urgent assessment is appropriate if the hand becomes pale, blue, very swollen, or difficult to move.

Could this involve a joint, tendon, skin, or deeper tissue? Do its size and firmness warrant imaging? What changes should make me return sooner? If treatment is suggested, what are the expected benefits and possible drawbacks?