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Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - What it is

Lumps in the neck can arise from the skin and the subcutaneous tissue. Two of the most commonly seen lumps are lipomas and epidermal cysts.

Skin cancers, lipomas and epidermoid cysts are lumps commonly seen in the neck according to SingHealth Duke-NUS Head and Neck Centre. 1. Skin Cancers

Skin cancers are cancers that arise from the skin. It is usually slowgrowing and of low malignancy. It often appears as a painless raised area of skin which result in non-healing ulceration of the area.

2. Lipomas

Lipomas are benign tumours composed of adipose (fat) tissue. They are soft, small and usually painless but can enlarge gradually over time. Sometimes the lumps can become troublesome if they enlarge and may need to be removed surgically.

3. Epidermoid cysts

These are benign cysts that arise from the skin. They are usually slow growing and painless. They can however become infected and when this happens the lump may become red, painful and have discharge.

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - Symptoms

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - How to prevent?

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - Causes and Risk Factors

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - Diagnosis

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - Treatments

What treatments are available?

If the lump is troublesome or your doctor feels it is necessary to remove it, you may be advised to undergo an excision biopsy. This is usually done in an operating theatre under local or general anaesthesia and is usually done as a day surgery procedure.

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - Preparing for surgery

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - Post-surgery care

Skin and Subcutaneous Lumps – Skin Cancers, Lipomas, Epidermoid Cysts - Other Information

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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