Masses in the hand are abnormal (mostly benign) lumps or bumps that can occur on the skin (such as a mole or wart), in the soft tissue under the skin or even in the bone. Due to the many types of tissue in the hand (e.g. skin, fat, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, nerves, bone, etc.), many different types of masses can occur. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some examples of common hand masses are: Warts – Warts are very common, non-cancerous, bumps on the skin caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and can spread easily. While mostly harmless, they can be embarrassing, rough to the touch, and sometimes very itchy. Treatments include using a pumice stone, freezing, applying tape over it and peeling it off, or using a chemical. Some warts can however turn into cancer ( squamous cell carcinoma). This is why it is important for a hand surgeon to evaluate it. Ganglion cysts – These are very common non-cancerous masses in the hand. They vary in size and appearance depending on the individual. Some ganglion cysts may be soft, while others may be firm, and they can appear on the wrist or at the base of the finger. Ganglion cysts may or may not be painful. It is important to have your hand surgeon evaluate your cyst to determine the correct treatment. Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath – This is the second most common tumor in the hands and wrists. They are usually solid and not filled with liquid, are slow growing and non-cancerous. More often than not, these tumors are removed as they can grow bigger overtime and have a higher rate of recurrence. Epidermal inclusion cyst – These are non-cancerous and can sometimes appear where there was a previous cut or puncture. It is usually filled with a soft, waxy material called keratin. These are very simple to treat and can be easily removed in the office. Dupuytren’s contracture, although not technically a tumor, is a condition that is commonly mistaken for one. It causes firm pits, bumps and cords in the palm of the hand that can make it difficult to completely flatten the hand. If you have a lump or bump on your hand or wrist, visit your hand surgeon. Your surgeon will discuss non-surgical and surgical options with you and will decide on the best treatment plan.