Although most minor bumps on the legs may not cause concern, others that are itchy, red and painful can cause discomfort. Leg bumps can develop because of different causes, including benign skin problems and serious medical conditions. When bothersome leg bumps are not temporary and present these symptoms, you should seek medical advice to treat the condition.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis, an inflammation or infection of hair follicles, is a skin condition that may develop because of different causes, which include skin disorders and irritations. Skin irritation due to waxing or shaving of legs can cause irritant folliculitis, especially in women, according to DermNet NZ. Irritant folliculitis can occur when hair follicles start to grow after certain hair removal procedures such as shaving. Pimple-like formations and itching are possible symptoms. To treat this condition, DermNet NZ recommends the complete cessation of hair removal procedures for approximately three months.
Dermatofibroma
A dermatofibroma, characterized as a benign brown-reddish skin growth or bump, tends to develop usually on the legs. However, it may also appear anywhere on the body. A dermatofibroma or histiocytoma can be a hard nodule or bump beneath the skin surface, which forms because of an insect bite or skin injury, suggests the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. If it does not present irritation problems, a histiocytoma may not require treatment. Surgical removal of this growth is an option, however, when it does cause concern or problems in some people.
Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is a benign skin condition that is quite common. Small, painless bumps, caused by an accumulation of keratin in the outer skin layer, can appear on arms and legs because of this condition. The reason for keratin accumulation is unknown, but it may possibly happen in connection with some hereditary diseases and skin conditions, suggests MayoClinic.com. Dry skin patches and some itching may also be other symptoms of keratosis pilaris. In some people, this condition can appear early in life and be persistent. However, keratosis pilaris can clear up on its own.
Erythema Nodosum
Erythema nodosum, associated with tender and painful lump formation mainly on arms and legs, is an inflammatory disorder. Affecting women more commonly, erythema nodosum has other symptoms such as joint aches, bruise-like nodules and fever. The causes of erythema nodosum are many and can include reactions to certain medications, medical disorders and different types of infections such as sarcoidosis, according to MedlinePlus. To treat this condition, the underlying cause must be identified. Types of treatment possible are analgesics for pain, potassium iodide and corticosteroids for serious inflammations. The condition will clear up on its own in approximately six weeks, reassures MedlinePlus.
Other Causes
There can be many other causes of leg bumps, including different types of skin conditions such as boils and prurigo nodularis. Because certain serious medical conditions also may be associated with some types of leg bumps, you should seek proper medical diagnosis and treatment from a doctor for any troubling symptoms.
