It can be disconcerting to notice a developing growth in the hand or any area of the body. However, there are many different types of hand tumors, most of which are benign. At Suncoast Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, we can surgically remove small hand masses and tumors to ensure that they don’t limit patients’ range of motion or cause pain.
The most common types of hand tumors include:
Ganglion Cysts
As the most common type of hand tumor, ganglion cysts affect a significant portion of the population at some point in their lives. Ganglion cysts are benign and generally don’t cause pain. However, if a ganglion cyst is located in an area that you use frequently (such as your dominant hand), it may cause pain and limit your range of motion in that area, especially if it continues growing.
While ganglion cysts can go away on their own, many need to be surgically removed to restore a complete range of motion in the affected area.
Giant Cell Tumor
Giant cell tumors are the next most common type of hand tumor, and are also benign. This type of tumor is firm and not filled with fluid. While giant cell tumors can grow over time, they typically do so slowly.
Epidermal Inclusion Cysts
This is a type of growth that forms beneath the skin. Common and generally painless, epidermal inclusion cysts consist of the protein, keratin, which is found naturally in the skin. Patients may develop this type of cyst on areas that were previously punctured or cut.
Dupuytren’s Contracture
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that occurs when the connective tissue in the hand thickens. This can create a bump in the finger or make the finger permanently bent, which is called a contracture. This condition is often uncomfortable and hinders motion in the hand and fingers.
If you have a small mass on your hand or wrist, visit Suncoast Orthopaedic to have it evaluated. Masses that are causing discomfort or limiting your range of motion can be surgically removed to prevent complications.