Differential Diagnosis for Spontaneous Bump on Hand
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ganglion cyst: This is the most common lump found on the hand, often appearing as a firm, rubbery bump, typically on the wrist. It is usually benign and can be caused by a herniation of a joint capsule or tendon sheath.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lipoma: A benign tumor composed of fat tissue, which can appear as a soft, movable lump under the skin of the hand.
- Epidermoid cyst: A benign cyst that can appear as a firm, lump under the skin, often filled with a cheesy material.
- Abscess or boil: An infected sebaceous cyst or hair follicle that can cause a painful, swollen lump on the hand.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Osteosarcoma or other bone tumors: Although rare, these malignant tumors can present as a lump on the hand and are critical to diagnose early for effective treatment.
- Infections like osteomyelitis or septic arthritis: These serious infections can cause swelling and a lump on the hand and require prompt medical attention to prevent serious complications.
- Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath: A rare, benign tumor that can cause a lump on the hand, but can be locally aggressive and cause significant symptoms.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Glomus tumor: A rare, benign tumor of the glomus body that can appear as a painful lump under the fingernail.
- Enchondroma: A rare, benign cartilage tumor that can cause a lump on the hand, often associated with pain or fracture.
- Soft tissue sarcomas: Rare, malignant tumors that can present as a lump on the hand, requiring early diagnosis and treatment for a favorable prognosis.