Painful Lumps: What Could Be Causing Your Groin Swelling?

There is a painful small lump?

I have suddenly developed a small lump on the skin at the junction of my right groin and thigh, next to my right testicle.
It feels soft and squishy to the touch, and there is a red circle around it that looks like an inflamed pimple.
It is painful when squeezed.
In the past, I had a large bump on my buttocks that eventually burst, resembling a pimple filled with pus.
Although this new lump looks similar, its location raises concerns.
Generally, it does not hurt when walking, but it is painful when pressed.
I am unsure if it is an inflammatory swelling or if it is something concerning that is growing.
I would like to know what this type of lump might resemble and how I should handle it.

Ahao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/12

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Based on your description, this lump is more likely to be a sebaceous cyst (subcutaneous cyst).
To confirm, I recommend that you visit a surgical outpatient clinic for an examination.

Reply Date: 2019/03/12

More Info

When it comes to painful lumps in the groin area, particularly one that appears suddenly and is soft to the touch, there are several potential causes to consider. The description you provided suggests that the lump is tender, possibly inflamed, and resembles a pimple or cyst. Here are some common conditions that could explain your symptoms:
1. Lymphadenopathy: The groin area contains lymph nodes that can become swollen due to infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions. If the lump is near the groin, it could be an enlarged lymph node reacting to an infection in the lower body, such as a skin infection or sexually transmitted infection.

2. Sebaceous Cyst: These are common, benign lumps that can occur anywhere on the body, including the groin. They form when sebaceous glands become blocked, leading to the accumulation of sebum. They are usually soft, movable, and can become inflamed or infected, causing pain.

3. Abscess: If the lump is painful and has a red circle around it, it could be an abscess, which is a collection of pus that forms due to infection. Abscesses can occur from hair follicles becoming infected or from other skin infections.

4. Hernia: A groin hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. While hernias are typically not painful unless they become incarcerated or strangulated, they can sometimes present as a lump in the groin area.

5. Testicular Issues: Since you mentioned the lump is near the testicle, it’s important to consider testicular conditions such as epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) or a testicular torsion, which can present with swelling and pain.

6. Skin Conditions: Conditions like folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) or other dermatological issues can also cause painful lumps in the groin area.

Given the variety of potential causes, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation, especially since the lump is painful and has changed in appearance. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies or laboratory tests to determine the exact nature of the lump.

Recommended Actions:
- Avoid squeezing or popping the lump: This can lead to further inflammation or infection.

- Monitor for changes: Keep an eye on the lump for any changes in size, color, or pain level.

- Seek medical attention: It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider, preferably a dermatologist or urologist, who can assess the lump and provide appropriate treatment based on the diagnosis.

Conclusion:
Painful lumps in the groin area can arise from various conditions, some benign and others requiring medical attention. Given your history of a similar issue, it’s essential to have this new lump evaluated to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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