What causes a hard lump on the side of the little finger, and what should be done about it?

Generally, a hard lump on the side of the little finger may be caused by factors such as pressure and friction, organized hematoma due to trauma, ganglion cyst, common warts, or stenosing tenosynovitis. Depending on the specific condition, patients can choose appropriate management methods such as conservative treatment, medication, or surgical intervention. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Pressure and Friction

Prolonged improper pen-holding posture or wearing tight gloves can lead to continuous pressure and friction on the side of the little finger, causing thickening of the stratum corneum and formation of a hard lump. Correcting pen grip and switching to loose, breathable gloves can help. Soaking hands in warm water every night followed by application of moisturizing cream can soften the thickened skin.

2. Organized Traumatic Hematoma

After an impact injury to the little finger, subcutaneous bleeding forms a hematoma that fails to be fully absorbed and gradually organizes into a hard mass. After 48 hours post-injury, apply warm compresses using a heated towel for 15 minutes twice daily to promote local blood circulation and accelerate resolution of the lump.

3. Ganglion Cyst

An accumulation of fluid within the joint capsule or tendon sheath leads to cyst formation. The lump is typically firm and may be accompanied by mild aching discomfort. Topical application of diclofenac diethylamine gel under medical guidance, along with oral celecoxib capsules or ibuprofen sustained-release tablets, may be used. In severe cases, surgical excision of the ganglion cyst may be necessary.

4. Common Wart

Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) causes excessive proliferation of keratinocytes, resulting in a rough-surfaced hard lump. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include topical use of imiquimod cream or fluorouracil ointment, intralesional injection of pingyangmycin, or laser ablation to remove the wart.

5. Stenosing Tenosynovitis

Inflammation occurs due to friction between the tendon and tendon sheath, leading to localized hyperplasia and formation of a hard lump. Pain and snapping sensation may occur during finger flexion and extension. Under medical supervision, medications such as naproxen tablets or etoricoxib tablets may be taken orally, and ketoprofen gel applied topically. If conservative treatment fails, surgical release via tendon sheath incision may be performed.

In daily life, it's important to protect the little finger from excessive pressure and friction; maintain hand hygiene to prevent viral infections; avoid pressing or massaging lumps manually; and seek timely medical evaluation and treatment if the lump enlarges or becomes painful to ensure accurate diagnosis and proper management.