Right Chest Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice

Right chest mass?

About a month ago, I suddenly felt a lump on the lower left side of my right breast at night, approximately one centimeter in size.
It was slightly painful when pressed, but it disappeared within a week.
Now, there is only a thin layer remaining that is not painful, and there is also a small protrusion nearby, about the size of a 0.38 pen tip, which is also painless.
I would like to ask the doctor what this condition might be; if a medical examination is necessary, which department should I consult?

Alan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/20

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Alan, 18 years old, male, would like to ask the doctor what this situation might be; A: It is difficult to determine without a physical examination, but generally speaking, if there is a reduction in size, it is likely not cancer.
If a medical examination is needed, which department should he visit? A: General Surgery.
Wishing you good health, Taoyuan Hospital, Dr.
Chen Sih-Rong.

Reply Date: 2022/03/20

More Info

When it comes to lumps in the chest area, particularly in the right side, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness. Based on your description, you noticed a lump about one centimeter in size that was tender to touch but subsequently diminished in size, leaving behind a smaller, painless protrusion. This kind of change can be indicative of several conditions, and understanding when to seek medical advice is crucial.

Possible Causes of Chest Lumps
1. Benign Conditions: Many lumps in the chest area can be benign, such as lipomas (fatty tumors), cysts, or fibromas. These are generally non-cancerous and may not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

2. Infections: Sometimes, lumps can arise from infections, such as abscesses or localized infections in the skin or underlying tissues. If the lump was painful and then resolved, it could have been a minor infection that your body managed to clear.

3. Musculoskeletal Issues: Given that the lump was tender to touch, it might also be related to musculoskeletal issues, such as costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum) or muscle strain. These conditions can cause localized pain and swelling.

4. Lymphadenopathy: Enlarged lymph nodes can also present as lumps in the chest area. This could be due to infections, inflammatory conditions, or, in rare cases, malignancies. The fact that the lump has decreased in size is reassuring, but it is still important to monitor any changes.

5. Malignant Conditions: While less common, it is essential to consider the possibility of malignancy, especially if there are changes in the lump, persistent pain, or other systemic symptoms like weight loss or fever.

When to Seek Medical Advice
You should consider seeking medical attention if:
- The lump persists or grows larger.

- You experience new symptoms, such as persistent pain, fever, or unexplained weight loss.

- There are changes in the skin over the lump, such as redness, warmth, or discharge.

- You have a family history of breast or chest-related cancers.

Which Specialist to Consult
For a lump in the chest area, it is advisable to start with a visit to a primary care physician or a general practitioner. They can perform a physical examination and may refer you to a specialist based on their findings. If necessary, you may be referred to:
- Breast Surgeon: If the lump is suspected to be related to breast tissue.

- General Surgeon: For further evaluation and management of any suspicious lumps.

- Oncologist: If there is a concern for malignancy based on imaging or biopsy results.

Diagnostic Approach
Upon visiting a healthcare provider, they may recommend several diagnostic tests, including:
- Ultrasound: This imaging test can help differentiate between solid and cystic lumps and assess the characteristics of the lump.

- Mammogram: If the lump is in breast tissue, a mammogram may be necessary.

- Biopsy: If there is any suspicion of malignancy, a biopsy may be performed to obtain tissue for histological examination.

Conclusion
In summary, while many lumps in the chest area can be benign and self-limiting, it is essential to monitor any changes and seek medical advice if you have concerns. Early evaluation can provide peace of mind and ensure that any necessary interventions are made promptly. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your body.

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