Which Specialist to See for a Painful Tumor in the Lower Abdomen?

Which department should I consult?

There is a hard lump in the lower right abdomen that was about 1 cm when first discovered.
It hurts even without pressure, and pressing on it causes significant pain.
The lump has grown to approximately 4-5 cm in size over the course of 3-4 days, and the pain has intensified.
Is there a high possibility that it could be malignant? Which specialty should I see as soon as possible?

Mr. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/13

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology

Infectious Medicine or General Surgery.

Reply Date: 2021/10/13

More Info

If you have discovered a painful tumor in your lower abdomen that has rapidly increased in size from about 1 cm to 4-5 cm within a few days, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Given the symptoms you are experiencing, including the hardness of the mass and the increasing pain, there are several potential concerns that need to be addressed.

Firstly, the rapid growth of a mass in the abdomen, especially one that is painful, raises the suspicion of a malignant process. While not all tumors are cancerous, the characteristics you describe—such as the quick increase in size and associated pain—can be indicative of a more serious condition. Tumors in the abdomen can arise from various tissues, including the gastrointestinal tract, reproductive organs, or even soft tissues, and can be benign or malignant.

In terms of which specialist to see, the best course of action would be to consult a general surgeon or a gastroenterologist. A general surgeon can evaluate the mass and determine if surgical intervention is necessary, while a gastroenterologist specializes in the digestive system and can assess if the tumor is related to gastrointestinal issues. If the mass is suspected to be related to the reproductive organs, a gynecologist (for females) or a urologist (for males) may also be appropriate.

During your visit, the doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies such as an ultrasound or CT scan to better understand the nature of the mass. These imaging studies can help determine the size, location, and characteristics of the tumor, which are essential for diagnosis. Additionally, blood tests may be conducted to check for markers that could indicate malignancy or other underlying conditions.

If the mass is determined to be suspicious for cancer, a biopsy may be necessary to obtain tissue samples for pathological examination. This will help in confirming whether the tumor is benign or malignant and guide further treatment options.

It is important to act quickly, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact outcomes, especially if the tumor is malignant. Do not delay in seeking medical attention, as the symptoms you are experiencing warrant a thorough evaluation.

In summary, for a painful and rapidly growing tumor in the lower abdomen, you should see a general surgeon or gastroenterologist as soon as possible. They will be able to assess your condition, perform necessary diagnostic tests, and determine the appropriate course of action based on their findings. Remember, early intervention is key in managing any potential malignancy effectively.

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