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What Causes Lump Under The Skin Of The Foot?

Posted on Fri, 1 Jul 2016

Question: I have a 75 year old with me with what seems like a pocket of air under the skin of her foot. She said she's had it for about a year now. I'm wondering what it is and if you can recommend some treatment.

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
needs exam to determine cause

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
It is unlikely to be a pocket of air, because if it were that then the body would have reabsorbed that over the course of just a few days. It would not persist for a year. It may be a fatty tumor called a lipoma. These are benign and do not usually require treatment unless they are very large.
I suggest that you take her to her doctor and have them take a look at it. Looking at the swelling and feeling the consistency of it may let them know what it is. If not they may be able to do a biopsy to determine the cause.
Please let me know if you have further questions.
Regards,
Dr. Robinson

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Kathy Robinson (23 minutes later)

Yes. It did feel soft so it may be a fatty substance.

What is the consequence of not having this treated soon? She's just visiting and does not have health insurance. So it may be better for her to get it treated in 5 months when she goes back home.

Thanks

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (47 hours later)

Brief Answer:
probably okay to wait

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
If it is not bothering her then it is probably okay to wait. It does not sound like it is serious if it is not causing her discomfort. If she has pain or discomfort, she needs to see a doctor soon.
Regards,
Dr. Robinson

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar