Back Tumors: When to Seek Medical Attention

Q: Back Tumors: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello： Based on your description of the tumor on your back, it is most likely a lipoma. <br>If it is indeed a lipoma, it should not affect your right knee. <br>I recommend that you return to the hospital for an examination.

There is a raised tumor on the upper back near the waist?

Dear Dr.
He,
I am a patient who underwent surgery for stage 0 left breast cancer in 1992, and I have been doing well since then.
Two years ago, I noticed a raised tumor on the upper right side of my back, approximately the size of a half ping pong ball.
It has been painless and asymptomatic.
I have consulted with several doctors, but they all advised me to leave it alone.
However, recently I have been experiencing weakness in my right knee, which has persisted for a year.
I suspect it may be related to the issue in my right back.
Therefore, I would like to seek your diagnosis on whether I should make an appointment at the hospital.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Lin Jing-Min
September 7, 2004

JIM, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/07

Dr. He Zhenming reply Surgery

Hello: Based on your description of the tumor on your back, it is most likely a lipoma.
If it is indeed a lipoma, it should not affect your right knee.
I recommend that you return to the hospital for an examination.

Reply Date: 2004/09/07

More Info

Dear Ms. Lin,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the tumor on your back and the recent symptoms you’ve been experiencing. It’s understandable to feel anxious about any changes in your health, especially given your history of breast cancer.
First, let’s address the tumor on your back. Since it has been present for two years without causing pain or discomfort, it may be a benign growth, such as a lipoma or a cyst. However, the fact that it has not changed in size or caused any symptoms is generally a reassuring sign. Medical professionals often recommend monitoring such growths unless they exhibit changes in size, shape, or symptoms. Nonetheless, it’s essential to keep in mind that any new symptoms, especially those that involve weakness or changes in function, should be evaluated.

Regarding the weakness you’ve been feeling in your right knee, this is a symptom that warrants further investigation. While it’s possible that the weakness could be related to the tumor on your back, it’s also important to consider other potential causes. These could include nerve compression, muscular issues, or even referred pain from another area. Given your history of cancer, it’s prudent to be cautious and seek a thorough evaluation.

I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider who can perform a comprehensive assessment. This may include a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to evaluate the tumor and any potential connections to your knee symptoms. It’s important to communicate your concerns clearly during your appointment, including the duration of your knee weakness and any other symptoms you may have noticed.

In summary, while the tumor on your back may not require immediate action if it remains stable, the new symptoms you are experiencing should be taken seriously. Seeking medical attention is advisable to rule out any serious underlying conditions and to ensure that you receive appropriate care.
Please take care, and I wish you the best in your health journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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