What are Lumps & Bumps
Ultrasound is an excellent first-line tool for evaluating superficial lumps and bumps, offering detailed information about their structure, content, and origin. It can distinguish between solid masses, fluid-filled cysts, lipomas, inflamed glands, and other soft-tissue abnormalities. Ultrasound also shows the relationship of the lump to surrounding tissues such as muscle, fascia, and vessels.
However, it is important to note that ultrasound cannot definitively diagnose whether a lump is benign or malignant. What it can do is provide helpful clues by evaluating features such as shape, margins, internal texture, and blood flow. This allows clinicians to categorise the lump as likely benign or requiring further testing.
If a mass appears suspicious or unclear, ultrasound helps guide next steps, including biopsy, MRI, or specialist referral. It is also useful for monitoring known lumps over time to check for changes.
Because it is fast, safe, and non-invasive, ultrasound is often the first and most appropriate investigation for any new lump or unexplained swelling.
