Assessment of subcutaneous lesions and lumps in children

Specialty: Children's surgery
Age group: Children

Criteria for referral to public hospital service

• Subcutaneous lesion(s) or lump(s) that are deep, painful, rapidly growing or greater than 1 centimetre
• Subcutaneous lesion(s) or lump(s) causing significant cosmetic concern (e.g. on the face) or functional impairment.

Information to be included in the referral

Information that must be provided

• Details of onset, duration, site, size and recent changes in size of lesion(s) or lump(s) and speed of growth
• Child’s age.

Provide if available

• Colour photograph(s) – with patient’s consent where secure image transfer, identification and storage is possible. These images often assist with identifying clinical urgency and the most appropriate specialist clinic or service
• Statement about the parent(s) or guardian’s interest in having surgical treatment if that is a possible intervention
• If the child identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
• If the child is neurodiverse, gender diverse or has a disability
• If the child has a preferred language other than English and if they rely on cultural or linguistic support (e.g. Aboriginal cultural support, an interpreter)
• If the child lives in out-of-home care (foster care, kinship care, permanent care or residential care)
• If the child is aged 14-18 years, do they consent that their health information is shared with their parent, guardian or carer.

Additional comments

The Minimum information for referrals to non-admitted specialist services lists the information that should be included in a referral request.

Ultrasound has no role in the assessment, measurement or management of subcutaneous lesions or lumps. Imaging reports do not inform the assessment of referrals and unnecessary imaging adds to parenteral concern.

Note there are children's surgery statewide referral for Birthmarks -children's surgery and dermatology statewide referral for Birthmarks, Skin lesions and other skin cancers and Melanoma in children.

Where appropriate and available the referral may be directed to an alternative specialist clinic or service.

Referral to a public hospital is not appropriate for

• Superficial lesions, lesions or lumps that are not growing or smaller than 1 centimetre
• Benign skin lesions not causing functional problems.