Lipomas: When to Seek Medical Advice and Next Steps

Q: Lipomas: When to Seek Medical Advice and Next Steps

Hello： The subcutaneous mass you found on the left side of your pubic bone has been present for a year, and you are experiencing pressure pain recently. <br>It is indeed recommended to undergo further examination to determine the nature of the tumor and to check for any inflammat

Lipoma

Hello Doctor: About a year ago, I discovered a hard lump on the left side of my pubic area that feels somewhat like a marble under the skin.
Recently, when I wear tighter jeans, the pressure on the affected area causes pain.
Which specialty should I consult for this issue? Additionally, I have had Pap smear results indicating inflammation for two consecutive years.
What should I be aware of? I previously asked a clinic doctor, and he mentioned that further examination is only necessary if there is inflammation for three consecutive years along with other symptoms.
Is this really the case? Thank you for taking the time to address my concerns.
Thank you, Iris.

iris, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/02/20

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Hello: The subcutaneous mass you found on the left side of your pubic bone has been present for a year, and you are experiencing pressure pain recently.
It is indeed recommended to undergo further examination to determine the nature of the tumor and to check for any inflammation.
It is advisable to consult a plastic surgeon or a general surgeon to evaluate whether surgical intervention is necessary.

The cervical smear showing signs of inflammation generally requires assessment for any discomfort symptoms.
If there are abnormal discharges, itching, or pain, it may indicate a microbial infection.
In postmenopausal women, it could also be due to atrophic vaginitis caused by hormone deficiency.
Women with lower immunity may also show inflammatory cells in tests, and many individuals may have persistent inflammation in their smears without significant disease.
Therefore, correlating with clinical symptoms is very important.
There is no need to worry too much; if there are concerns, you can discuss and seek treatment from a gynecologist.

Reply Date: 2008/02/20

More Info

Dear Iris,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the hard lump you discovered near your pubic area and the ongoing inflammation indicated in your Pap smear results. Let's break down your questions and provide some clarity on the next steps you should consider.

Understanding Lipomas
A lipoma is a benign tumor made up of fat tissue. They are typically soft, movable, and painless, but they can become uncomfortable if they press against nerves or other structures, especially if they are located in areas where they can be compressed by clothing or movement, such as the pubic region. Given that you have noticed pain when wearing tighter jeans, it is advisable to seek medical advice.

When to Seek Medical Advice
You should consider visiting a healthcare provider, specifically a general practitioner or a dermatologist, who can evaluate the lump. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies such as an ultrasound or MRI to determine the nature of the lump. If it is indeed a lipoma, treatment is generally not required unless it causes discomfort or other complications. In some cases, surgical removal may be recommended if the lipoma is painful or bothersome.

Pap Smear Results and Inflammation
Regarding your Pap smear results showing inflammation for two consecutive years, it is essential to take this seriously. While it is true that many healthcare providers may recommend further investigation only if there are persistent abnormalities over three years, it is also crucial to consider other factors such as your overall health, any additional symptoms you may be experiencing, and your medical history.
If you have ongoing inflammation, it could be indicative of various conditions, including infections, hormonal imbalances, or even precancerous changes. Therefore, it would be prudent to follow up with a gynecologist for a thorough evaluation. They may suggest additional tests, such as a colposcopy or a biopsy, to rule out any serious conditions.

Next Steps
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with a general practitioner or dermatologist for the lump. They can assess whether it is a lipoma or something else that may require treatment.

2. Follow Up on Pap Smear Results: Make an appointment with a gynecologist to discuss your Pap smear results. Be open about your concerns and ask about the necessity of further testing, especially since you have had inflammation for two years.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the lump or any new symptoms that may arise, such as increased pain, changes in size, or any unusual discharge.

4. Lifestyle Considerations: If tight clothing exacerbates your discomfort, consider wearing looser-fitting garments to alleviate pressure on the area.

Conclusion
It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. By seeking medical advice and following up on your Pap smear results, you can ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Remember, your health is paramount, and being proactive is key to maintaining it.

Thank you for your questions, and I hope this information helps you navigate your next steps. If you have any further concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Best wishes for your health,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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