Noticed Hard Lump After Dog Bite. Should I Consult A Doctor?

Posted on Mon, 26 Nov 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 Answered on

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : I was bitten by my dog about 3 weeks ago now I have a hard lump should I get it checked by a doctor and what could it be.

Answered by Dr. Puneet Maheshwari (43 minutes later)

Hello,

Thanks for the query,

Based on your description, I can think of 2 possibilities:

1. The hard lump under the scar could be a HYPERTROPHIC SCAR/ KELOID. This can appear following an injury to the XXXXXXX dermis (skin) and any injury heals with inflammation and scarring. Most hypertrophic scars may undergo partial spontaneous resolution, but it might take a couple of months.

Is the scar /lesion red in colour, any associated itching, tenderness/pain, is the lump elevated above the scar?

2. Localised induration of the underlying structure can occur as a result of inflammation. This can also cause similar hard lump.

Though both are not serious concern, I encourage you to consult a nearest doctor for a physical examination. I am sure your doctor will be able to differentiate the lump and relate it.

Hope this answers your query. Let me know if you have other concerns.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad