What Could Cause A Small Lump On The Ankle?

Posted on Wed, 28 Jan 2015

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

Wed, 28 Jan 2015 Answered on

Wed, 25 Feb 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a small lump/bump about an inch above the inside of my left ankle. It didn't wake me up just now but it's painful to the touch and I noticed it when walking to the bathroom. It's giving me anxiety thinking about it. It's about 1/2 inch in diameter.

Answered by Dr. T Chandrakant (48 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
May be a boil.

Detailed Answer:
Hi.
From the description you have posted this may be a boil.
You have noticed the lump while walking to the bathroom, is painful to touch, about 1/2 inch in diameter and an inch above the left ankle on inside.

I would be happy to see a picture so that it will help me in visual diagnosis and get an additional information if you think is relevant.

If this is a boil, do not try to pop or fiddle with it as this may spread the cellulitis. Take a small course of an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medicines like Ibuprofen. Apply Liquid Povidone Iodine if you have to the whole are, as this helps to sterilize the skin.

I hope this answer helps you, please fell to ask for more if you need to..

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