One Inch Round Swollen Area On Scalp

[paczki]

I am a 33 year old white female who is almost over a sinus infection, cold or allergy.  About three nights ago I discovered about a one inch roundish swollen area on my scalp (located about 2 inches above my hair line at my neck and about 3 inches back from my ear).  This is an area that is totally covered by my hair.  I went to an urgent care clinic and the Doctor told me it was not a lymphatic gland because it is not in an area where there is a lymph gland.  She said it was most likely a cyst and not related to my nasal drainage and not to worry about it.  She put me on amoxicillin for my sinus drainage.  Could a cyst of that size (about one inch) come very quickly, almost acute?  I did not notice it earlier in the day and I know it wasn't there the day before.  It feels a bit swollen when I touch it.  Otherwise physically I feel great and the sinus drainage is completely gone.  What could this be?  Would something malignant come that acutely?  If it's still there in a few weeks would there be any harm in me getting my hair routinely dyed?  I am very worried about this.  Should I be?  

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Difficult to say without examination.  

A cyst or abscess can present acutely like this, especially if it is associated with infection.  A malignant or cancerous cause is unlikely to present that quickly.  

If it continues, the lesion can be drained or biopsied by a surgeon or dermatologist.

This options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[paczki]

I also want to add that the swollen area is slightly raised like a low bump.