Shoulder Pain: Possible Tumor-Related Causes

Shoulder pain?

I have lumps in my neck, armpit, and groin.
There are two lumps in my left armpit, each less than one centimeter.
Sometimes, my left armpit feels a bit sore, but it is not painful, and the lumps are movable.

Xiao Mi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/29

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Xiaomi / 17 years old / Male
1.
The most likely cause is still lymphadenopathy or other benign conditions.
2.
To obtain a definitive diagnosis, it is necessary to visit a hospital for a physician's evaluation, and possibly a biopsy.
3.
If you prefer not to go to the hospital, self-monitoring is an option.
However, if the lump increases in size or symptoms do not improve, it is essential to seek medical attention.
Wishing you safety,
Taoyuan Hospital
Chen Si-Rong

Reply Date: 2016/04/29

More Info

Shoulder pain, particularly when accompanied by the presence of lumps or swelling in the neck, armpit, and groin, can be concerning and warrants a thorough evaluation. The symptoms you describe, including movable lumps in the left armpit that are not painful but occasionally feel sore, could be indicative of several underlying conditions, including benign issues or more serious concerns such as tumors.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Lymphadenopathy: The lumps you feel in your armpit could be swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes can become enlarged due to infections, inflammatory conditions, or malignancies. Infections, such as viral or bacterial infections, are common causes of lymph node enlargement. If you have had any recent infections, this could explain the swelling.

2. Lipomas: These are benign tumors made of fat tissue that can occur in various parts of the body, including the armpit. They are usually soft, movable, and painless, which aligns with your description.

3. Cysts: Sebaceous cysts or other types of cysts can form in the skin or underlying tissues and may present as lumps. These are generally benign and can be movable.

4. Malignant Tumors: While less common, the presence of lumps in conjunction with shoulder pain could indicate a more serious condition, such as lymphoma or metastatic cancer. If the lumps are persistent, growing, or associated with other symptoms (such as weight loss, night sweats, or fever), it is crucial to seek medical evaluation.

Recommended Actions
1. Medical Evaluation: It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination. A physical examination will help determine the nature of the lumps and assess any associated symptoms.
2. Imaging Studies: Depending on the initial evaluation, your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as an ultrasound or CT scan to further investigate the lumps and assess the surrounding tissues.

3. Biopsy: If there is any suspicion of malignancy or if the lumps do not resolve, a biopsy may be necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis. This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lump for laboratory analysis.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the size or characteristics of the lumps, as well as any new symptoms that may arise, such as pain, fever, or systemic symptoms.

5. Pain Management: For shoulder pain, consider over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), to manage discomfort. However, this should be discussed with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Conclusion
While the presence of lumps in the neck, armpit, and groin can often be benign, it is crucial to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially in the context of shoulder pain. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing any potential underlying conditions effectively. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention, as this will provide you with the best course of action tailored to your specific situation.

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