Skin Nodules: Everything You Need to Know

A nodule is a general term for a growth or lump that can be found just underneath the skin or in organs, such as thyroid and lungs. While most nodules are harmless, some can be caused by other health conditions or be cancerous.

Find out more about the causes, types, symptoms, when to see a healthcare provider and treatment for nodules.

Causes

The Journal of the Dermatology Nurses' Association defines skin nodules as palpable, solid lesions that are greater than 10 millimeters (less than half an inch) in diameter. Nodules are often found in the dermal (second layer of skin) or subcutaneous (third layer of skin) tissue. They can be solid or cystic raised bumps (closed sacs filled with air, fluid, pus, or another substance) that may appear above, level with, or below the skin's surface.

There are many reasons why nodules can occur. Certain types of skin nodules can be caused by autoimmune diseases, bacterial and fungal infections, sun exposure, friction, and other conditions.

A nodule that is found on the thyroid (a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck) may be due to an overactive thyroid. A nodule found on another part of the neck or under the armpit may be the body's responses to infection. Vocal cord nodules may occur when there has been overuse or misuse of the vocal cords.

Types

Skin nodules

Skin nodules can include a wide variety of raised skin bumps such as acne, cysts, blisters, skin tags, moles, lipomas, rashes, or inflammatory nodules related to respiratory illness, infections, or allergies. They vary in shape, size, color, and feel. They may or may not be accompanied by other symptoms. The best way to identify the nodule is to see a skin specialist, such as a board-certified dermatologist.

Most skin nodules are not harmful, however, suspicious bumps or mole-like lesions that are new, that won't heal, or that have changed could indicate skin cancer and should be examined right away.

Lymph node nodules

You have lymph nodes throughout your body. They are naturally hard to find, but when you are sick, they may become enlarged and elevated from the skin. Some common places that lymph nodes can become enlarged include the neck, groin, and armpit. Lymph node swelling is usually due to infections (such as strep throat or chicken pox), certain medicines, immune system diseases, and, in rare instances, cancer.

Thyroid nodules

A nodule in the thyroid is an abnormal growth of thyroid cells. These types of nodules are very common and usually harmless. They can be associated with certain conditions, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or an iodine deficiency. Sometimes, these nodules are cancerous.

Vocal cord nodules

Vocal cord nodules are lumps in your vocal cord folds, which usually occur due to overusing or straining your vocal cords, as when yelling or singing. Additional factors, such as allergies, smoking, and tense muscles, may also cause vocal cord nodules.

Lung nodules

Lung nodules (also called pulmonary nodules) are defined as nodules or abnormal growths on the lungs that can measure up to 3 centimeters. They are usually categorized into different groups, including solid nodules, ground-glass nodules, and part-solid nodules.

Lung nodules are common and can occur for many reasons, including infections, scar tissue, autoimmune diseases, and congenital abnormalities. Lung nodules are often benign (not harmful) but some can be cancerous. Having more than one lung nodule increases the risk of nodules being cancerous.

Other

Other types of skin nodules include acne nodules, nodular melanoma, dermatofibroma, rheumatoid nodules.

Symptoms

Symptoms of skin nodules depend on the cause. For example:

• A nodule that starts to bleed may cause pain or irritation.
• A nodule that is caused by inflammation or infection may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever and body aches.
• A nodule on the vocal cords may cause a scratchy voice.

If your nodule is being caused by an autoimmune disease, you may experience symptoms unique to that disease. For example, people with rheumatoid arthritis may have nodules close to their joints that can cause pain.

Nodules found in organs may be discovered when no symptoms are present. Your healthcare provider may discover them during a routine examination or through diagnostic imaging, such as a CT (computed tomography) scan.

When to See a Healthcare Professional

Discovering a new growth on your body that you are unfamiliar with usually warrants a visit with your healthcare provider. Especially if you are unsure of the cause, if it is creating discomfort, if it is growing rapidly, and/or if it's not going away. In addition, regular checkups are important for overall health and well-being.

When experiencing new symptoms or symptoms that will not go away, it's important to have a discussion with your healthcare provider.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the location, size, status, and cause of the nodule, but may include monitoring (also called watchful waiting), medications, or surgery. If the nodule is cancerous or caused by another health condition or illness, treatment of the underlying condition is often the first step.

Summary

Nodules on the skin can appear just below the surface or deeper within organs. Symptoms will depend on the cause. Most nodules are not harmful but should be examined by a healthcare provider to determine the cause and treatment.

A Word From Verywell

Developing some type of skin nodule on or underneath the skin is common. Most of the time, there is no cause for concern. However, if nodules are growing, spreading, or causing pain, it is important to see a healthcare provider for examination and treatment options, if necessary. Monitoring changes to your body and going for regular checkups is important for overall health and well-being.