What causes a hard lump under the skin near the coccyx?
Disease description:
I noticed a hard lump under the skin near the coccyx while taking a shower. What could this be?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
A hard lump under the skin near the coccyx (tailbone) may be caused by various factors. Below are some possible causes:
1. Fat accumulation: Accumulation of fat tissue around the coccyx may form a hard lump. Generally, maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in appropriate exercise can help reduce fat accumulation and cause the lump to dissipate.
2. Coccygeal nodule prominence: Some individuals may naturally have a larger or more prominent coccygeal nodule, which is a normal anatomical variation and does not require special treatment.
3. Folliculitis: When hair follicles become infected or irritated, increased secretion and accumulation of material within the follicle may form a hard lump.
4. Sebaceous cyst: When the opening of a hair follicle's sebaceous gland becomes blocked, sebum may accumulate and form a cyst, presenting as a hard lump under the skin.
5. Lipoma: A lipoma is a benign tumor composed of mature fat cells that may cause the appearance of a hard nodule under the skin.
6. Scar tissue: The lump could be scar tissue remaining from a previous injury or surgical procedure.
If the hard lump is accompanied by symptoms such as pain, redness, swelling, or fever, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is necessary.
