Is this considered a tumor?
Hello, Dr.
Qian.
I am a college student.
Yesterday morning, after I left home, I felt a slight pain in the right side of my armpit.
At first, I thought it might be due to dry weather causing some skin irritation.
However, last night while I was showering, I touched the area and discovered what seems to be a small hard lump, slightly smaller than a pea, which is mildly painful.
Could this be a tumor? Is it serious? Or could it be related to my irregular sleep schedule from staying up late? Thank you for your response, doctor.
Mr. Hsu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/30
Dr. Qian Xinnan reply Rare Disease
Staying up late is not good for the body, but there is no evidence that it causes tumors.
This small hard lump could also be a sign of folliculitis.
If it enlarges or continues to cause discomfort, it is recommended that patients visit our outpatient clinic for further examination by a physician, who can provide relevant consultation services.
For online appointment scheduling at Tri-Service General Hospital, please visit http://www.tsgh.ndmctsgh.edu.tw.
For voice appointment scheduling at the Neihu branch, call (02) 8792-7111, and for the Tingzhou branch, call (02) 23659055 ext.
88609.
We encourage you to make use of these services.
Thank you for your message, and we wish you good health.
Reply Date: 2004/12/30
More Info
When it comes to the discovery of a hard lump in the body, such as the one you described in your right axillary region, it is understandable to feel concerned and seek medical advice. The term "tumor" refers to an abnormal growth of tissue, which can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). However, not all lumps or hard masses are tumors.
Given your description of a small, pea-sized hard lump that is slightly painful, there are several possibilities to consider. The lump could be a benign condition such as a lipoma (a fatty tumor), a cyst (a fluid-filled sac), or a lymph node that has become enlarged due to infection or inflammation. In young adults, especially, swollen lymph nodes can occur in response to infections, such as a cold or localized skin infection.
The pain you are experiencing may also indicate that the lump is related to an inflammatory process, which could be due to various factors, including skin irritation, infection, or even a reaction to something like a bug bite. It is also worth noting that lifestyle factors, such as lack of sleep or stress, can contribute to bodily discomfort and may exacerbate existing conditions.
To determine the nature of the lump, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, order imaging studies such as an ultrasound or a CT scan to get a clearer picture of what is happening beneath the skin. In some cases, a biopsy may be required to analyze the tissue and confirm whether it is benign or malignant.
It is important to remember that the majority of lumps found in young adults are benign. However, monitoring the lump for any changes in size, shape, or pain level is crucial. If the lump grows, becomes increasingly painful, or if you develop other symptoms such as fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, you should seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while the presence of a hard lump can be concerning, it does not automatically indicate a serious condition. Many factors can contribute to the formation of lumps, and a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is the best way to determine the cause and appropriate management. It is always better to err on the side of caution and get a professional opinion, especially when it comes to changes in your body.
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