Ask a doctor on the topic of Pediatrics

Ganglion in a small child?

June 12, 2013 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Dear Sir or Madam,

I discovered with great concern today a small hard lump on the right back of my little daughter (2 years) hand or wrist. The spot cannot be precisely localized. It is clearly visible and palpable when bending the hand inwards. Otherwise, it is hardly noticeable. It feels very hard and somewhat pointed. Pressing on it now also causes her some discomfort.

Could this be a ganglion? Can small children already develop something like this? We are terribly worried that it might be something serious.

Should we take her to a pediatrician, or rather straight to a pediatric surgeon?

Thank you for your response.

Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Good day,
yes, this could be a ganglion. This is a gelatinous mass that has accumulated in this node. This is nothing serious. Serious things also do not hurt, but can be felt as a painless "tumor".
Please first consult your pediatrician and have it examined by him.
All the best!