Seeking Insight on a Finger Bump
I’m a 39-year-old male, standing at 5’11” and weighing 200 pounds. I do not smoke and am generally in good health. I’ve noticed a firm, painless growth adjacent to the cuticle of my middle finger, which has caused some distortion in the nail’s appearance. This bump has been present for approximately five months, fluctuating in size during that period. A recent x-ray showed no abnormalities, and I am currently awaiting MRI results. My dermatologist mentioned the possibility of considering MOHS surgery depending on the MRI findings. Additionally, I’ve undergone a blood test to check for autoimmune conditions, which returned negative results.
Answers (1)
3/24/2025, 6:01:08 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a concerning bump on your finger that's being monitored closely by your dermatologist. Here's what you need to know:
Main Points
- The bump next to your cuticle could be a variety of things, including a rough cyst, a growth, or possibly, especially given its duration and changes in size, something requiring further evaluation.
- MOHS surgery is a precise method often used for skin growths that need to be removed carefully.
Explanation
The firm, painless growth near your cuticle that has changed in size could indicate a benign condition, such as a ganglion cyst or other types of skin lesions. Since the x-ray showed no abnormalities and you are awaiting MRI results, your health team is likely looking for more detailed imaging to determine the exact nature of the bump. The negative autoimmune test results are reassuring, as they help rule out systemic issues.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on any changes in size, pain, or other symptoms (like drainage or redness) and note these down for your next appointment.
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Limit Irritation: Try to avoid any activities that could put strain on your finger or irritate the bump, such as heavy lifting or pressure on that finger.
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Stay Informed: Once the MRI results are available, discuss them thoroughly with your dermatologist to understand your options, including the potential need for MOHS surgery. This surgery is often recommended for skin spots that may be problematic, and your dermatologist would have the best insights based on their assessment.
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Follow Up: Ensure you have a follow-up appointment scheduled to discuss your MRI results and any next steps based on those findings.
Feel free to reach out if you have further questions or need clarification as you await more information. Your proactive approach is important, and it's great to see you're engaged with your healthcare process.
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