Description
Scalp swelling can result from trauma, infection, inflammation, abscess, allergic reaction, or tumor. Inflammation can occur from a medication reaction, trauma or an autoimmune disease.
Symptoms
Pain, swelling, redness, increased warmth, fever.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Lab tests may be done to rule out infection or inflammation. A CT scan or MRI may be performed to determine the underlying cause of the swelling as well.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Pediatric Dermatology, Telemedicine Dermatology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Lab tests may be done to rule out infection or inflammation. A CT scan or MRI may be performed to determine the underlying cause of the swelling as well.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Pediatric Dermatology, Telemedicine Dermatology
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause but may include: nothing, cold compress, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), and/or antibiotics.