Groin Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention

Inguinal mass

Hello, doctor.
I noticed a lump about 5-6 centimeters in size in my groin area while showering over the past two days.
It is painful when pressed and also hurts when sitting in a chair.
The lump is movable from side to side.
Should I seek medical attention immediately? If so, should I go directly to an oncology department or first to a general surgery department? I'm concerned because the lump is larger than the typical 2 centimeters mentioned in many inquiries.

Xiao Fei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/14

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Xiao Fei / 37 years old / Male
1.
Should I seek medical attention immediately? A: Yes, due to the presence of a 5-6 cm mass and associated pain, it should be addressed as soon as possible.

2.
Should I go directly to the oncology department or first to general surgery? A: You should first consult with general surgery or plastic surgery for excision.
Wishing you peace and joy, Taoyuan Hospital, Dr.
Chen Si-Rong.

Reply Date: 2020/07/14

More Info

When it comes to groin lumps, it's essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description of a 5-6 cm lump in the groin area that is painful to touch and causes discomfort while sitting, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation promptly.

Understanding Groin Lumps
Groin lumps can arise from various conditions, including:
1. Lymphadenopathy: Enlarged lymph nodes due to infections (like sexually transmitted infections, bacterial infections, or viral infections) or malignancies.

2. Hernias: A protrusion of tissue through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, which can cause a lump and discomfort.

3. Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the groin area, often benign but can become painful if infected.

4. Abscesses: Collections of pus that can form due to infections, leading to painful lumps.

5. Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors can present as lumps in the groin area.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given the size of the lump (5-6 cm) and the associated pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Here are some indicators that warrant immediate evaluation:
- Size: Lumps larger than 2 cm, especially if they are increasing in size.

- Pain: Persistent or worsening pain associated with the lump.

- Mobility: While some lumps can be mobile, any changes in mobility or consistency should be evaluated.

- Associated Symptoms: Fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel or urinary habits.

Which Specialist to See
In your case, since the lump is sizable and painful, you can start by seeing a general surgeon. They can perform a thorough examination, assess the lump, and determine if further imaging (like an ultrasound or CT scan) is necessary. If the lump is suspected to be a lymph node, they may refer you to an oncologist or a specialist in infectious diseases, depending on the findings.

What to Expect During the Visit
During your appointment, the doctor will likely:
1. Take a Medical History: Discuss any recent infections, weight loss, or other symptoms.

2. Perform a Physical Examination: Assess the lump's characteristics, including size, tenderness, and mobility.

3. Order Diagnostic Tests: Depending on the initial assessment, they may recommend imaging studies or a biopsy to determine the nature of the lump.

Conclusion
In summary, given the size and painful nature of the lump in your groin, it is advisable to seek medical attention without delay. Starting with a general surgeon is a good approach, as they can provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you to the appropriate specialist if necessary. Early assessment is crucial to rule out serious conditions and to ensure timely management.

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