Knötchen

Knötchen is the diminutive form of Knoten and denotes a small nodule or lump. In German, the term is used in everyday language and in several scientific contexts to describe a compact, rounded elevation or swelling in tissue. The exact meaning depends on the field and the lesion’s characteristics; in general, Knötchen are smaller than a full-size Knoten.

In medicine and dermatology, Knötchen refers to small, palpable nodular lesions on the skin or mucous membranes. They can be inflammatory, infectious, or neoplastic in origin. Examples include acne nodules (Knötchenakne), granulomatous nodules, or benign subcutaneous nodules. Lymph nodes may present as small Knötchen during infections, but clinicians distinguish superficial nodules from deeper masses through examination and imaging.

In botany, Knötchen can describe small nodular outgrowths on plant organs, such as root nodules in leguminous plants that harbor nitrogen-fixing bacteria, or other minor tuberculate swellings on stems or leaves.

The term is descriptive rather than a precise medical diagnosis. If a Knötchen changes in size, becomes painful, or is accompanied by discharge, fever, or other systemic symptoms, professional evaluation is advised to determine the underlying cause and necessary management.