What should you know about a swollen lump on your back?

A clinician will consider how long the lump has been present, whether it is tender, and whether it moves under the skin. A blocked gland, inflamed skin, cyst, lipoma, muscle injury, or infection may cause a lump. Lymph nodes can enlarge in response to nearby inflammation; less commonly, a persistent mass may need assessment for cancer, including lymphoma or a cancer whose original site is not yet known.

Record its size in ordinary terms, surface changes, warmth, pain, and any change in firmness. Also mention fever, night sweating, unexplained weight loss, swallowing trouble, or lumps elsewhere. A lump near the neck or shoulder may be assessed alongside head and neck conditions or thyroid problems.

Arrange a primary-care or specialist appointment if the lump persists, grows, returns, or has no clear explanation. Do not squeeze, puncture, or repeatedly massage it. The examination may be followed by an ultrasound or other imaging, blood tests, or a tissue sample, depending on its position and features. Bring a list of medicines and note when you first noticed the change.

Seek urgent medical help for a lump with rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, spreading redness, fever, pus, weakness, or trouble breathing or swallowing. Prompt review is also sensible for a hard or fixed lump, a lump that keeps enlarging, or one accompanied by persistent night sweats or unexplained weight loss.

Ask what the lump feels like on examination, which test would clarify its nature, and how soon the result should be reviewed. If a thyroid-related cause is considered, ask whether thyroid imaging or a referral is needed and what thyroid removal surgery would involve only if treatment becomes relevant.