What Does A Lump On Back Of The Head Indicate?

Posted on Mon, 28 Jul 2014

Question: My father has a lump on the top/back of his head. He said it is not painful at all and has been there for many months. It is about the size of half a golf ball, he did not hit his head on anything when it started to show up. He says its just a "fatty cyst". He has not been to see a doctor in over 10 years nor will he be able to anytime soon. So I'm just wondering if this is something I should really push for him to get looked at. He is 60, 6'2. 200lb.

Answered by Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
If large enough and visible get excised.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I appreciate your concern about your father.

According to your explanation, it could be Lipoma (fatty cyst) or Sebaceous cyst( swelling from hair follicle). Sebaceous cyst is slow growing, painless benign cyst. It does not require any treatment unless it causes symptoms like pain, redness of skin, enlarge in size. Since it large enough to be visible your father can get it removed by excision.

Your father should seek Surgeon's consultation for complete diagnosis and treatment.

Hope I have answered your question. If you have any queries I will be happy to help you.
Thank you

Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now

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