Left Shoulder Swelling: Causes and Concerns

Q: Left Shoulder Swelling: Causes and Concerns

Hello Rain： I apologize for the delayed response due to a busy schedule, and I appreciate your understanding. <br>The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body, which also means it is more susceptible to accidental injuries. <br>A sudden swelling in the shoulder j

Swelling in the left shoulder?

Hello Dr.
Wang: My mother is about 55 years old, 157 cm tall, and weighs around 45 kg (possibly due to severe weight loss from depression).
Recently, she has been frequently complaining of pain near her left shoulder joint (the entire left arm hurts).
Initially, we thought it was a sprain and consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, but there was no improvement.
Today, I happened to notice that she has developed a noticeable lump on her left shoulder (it's obvious enough that I can see it).
Is this a sign of cancer? I am very scared because my grandfather passed away from liver cancer, and my mother's brother also died of cancer, as did my father.
Is there a hereditary factor? She is scheduled to go to the hospital for an examination in a few days (after the typhoon passes).
If it turns out to be cancer, what is the survival rate? Is there a chance for recovery?

Y, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/01

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello Rain: I apologize for the delayed response due to a busy schedule, and I appreciate your understanding.
The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body, which also means it is more susceptible to accidental injuries.
A sudden swelling in the shoulder joint (as you described) is generally not characteristic of tumors, which typically do not develop so rapidly.
More likely causes would be infection or a hematoma from trauma.
Whether cancer is hereditary depends on the type of cancer.
The treatment success rate varies based on the characteristics of the cancer and how early it is detected.
It is important to seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying treatment.
Wishing you health and happiness.
Wang Shou-ji, Changhua Hospital, cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2005/10/01

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your mother's condition. I understand your concerns, especially given your family's history with cancer. Let's break down the situation regarding her left shoulder swelling and pain.

Possible Causes of Left Shoulder Swelling
1. Rotator Cuff Injury: One of the most common causes of shoulder pain, especially in older adults, is a rotator cuff injury. This can occur due to repetitive use or acute injury, leading to inflammation and swelling.

2. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues) can cause swelling and pain in the shoulder area. This condition often results from overuse or injury.

3. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the shoulder joint can also lead to pain and swelling. This is often seen in individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities.

4. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint swelling and pain. Given your mother's age, degenerative changes in the shoulder joint could be a factor.

5. Infection: Though less common, an infection in the shoulder joint or surrounding tissues can lead to swelling, redness, and pain. This would typically be accompanied by fever or systemic symptoms.

6. Tumors: While it is natural to worry about cancer, especially with a family history, tumors in the shoulder area can cause swelling. These can be benign or malignant. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the nature of any mass.

Concerns Regarding Cancer
Given your family history of cancer, it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of a malignant process. However, it is essential to remember that not all swelling or pain in the shoulder is indicative of cancer. Many benign conditions can present similarly.

Genetic Factors
Cancer can have a hereditary component, but not all cancers are directly inherited. Factors such as lifestyle, environmental exposures, and genetic predispositions can all play a role. It is crucial for your mother to discuss her family history with her healthcare provider, as this information can guide her evaluation and management.

Next Steps
1. Medical Evaluation: It is good to hear that your mother is scheduled for a medical evaluation. A healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination, take a detailed history, and may order imaging studies (like X-rays or MRI) to assess the shoulder's condition.

2. Biopsy: If a mass is identified, a biopsy may be necessary to determine whether it is benign or malignant. This is a standard procedure that can provide crucial information.

3. Treatment Options: If cancer is diagnosed, treatment options will depend on the type and stage of cancer. Many cancers have effective treatment protocols, and early detection can significantly improve outcomes.

Conclusion
While it is natural to feel anxious about your mother's symptoms, it is essential to wait for a thorough medical evaluation before jumping to conclusions. Many conditions can cause shoulder pain and swelling, and not all of them are serious. Encourage your mother to keep her appointment and discuss all her symptoms and concerns with her healthcare provider. They will be able to provide the best guidance based on her specific situation.

Wishing your mother a swift and accurate diagnosis, and hoping for the best possible outcome.

Best regards.

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