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Symptom Checker

Skin Lumps in Children

A skin lump is a bump or swelling that can be felt under or within the skin. Lumps may be soft or firm, tender or painless, and may stay the same size or change over time.

Swollen lymph nodes, cysts, lipomas, inflammation and infection are common causes. Less commonly, other growths or medical conditions can cause lumps.

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AAP Guide to Skin Lumps in Children

The AAP guide below explains common causes of lumps and which ones should be examined.

AAP Symptom CheckerSkin lumps

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The lump keeps growing or does not begin to shrink over time.
  • The lump feels hard, fixed or sits above the collarbone.
  • The skin over the lump becomes red, hot or painful.
  • Your child also has prolonged fever, weight loss, night sweats or other concerning symptoms.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Swelling affects your child’s breathing or swallowing.
  • Your child appears severely ill or has another life-threatening symptom.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms