Groin Lumps: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help

Inguinal mass

Doctor, I have a hard lump in my right groin that appeared about a month ago.
It has now increased in size to approximately 4 to 5 centimeters and has become red, swollen, and painful.
Walking is uncomfortable.
What symptoms could this be, and which specialist should I see?

Sunny, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/20

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Sunny / 19 years old / Female
1.
I have had a hard lump in my right groin for a month, and it has grown to about 4 to 5 centimeters.
It has also become red, swollen, and painful, making it uncomfortable to walk.
What are these symptoms? They seem to indicate inflammation: redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
2.
Which specialist should I see? Obstetrics and Gynecology or General Surgery?
Thank you for your letter.
Taoyuan Hospital, Chen Si-Rong.

Reply Date: 2016/02/20

More Info

When it comes to groin lumps, it's important to understand that they can arise from a variety of causes, and the symptoms you are experiencing—such as the lump being hard, increasing in size, becoming red, swollen, and painful—are concerning and warrant prompt medical attention.

Symptoms and Possible Causes
1. Lymphadenopathy: One of the most common causes of a lump in the groin area is swollen lymph nodes, which can occur due to infections (viral, bacterial, or fungal), inflammatory conditions, or malignancies. The lymph nodes can become enlarged and tender when the body is fighting an infection.

2. Hernia: A groin lump can also be indicative of an inguinal hernia, where tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. Hernias can cause discomfort, especially when walking or lifting heavy objects.

3. Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that can form due to infection. This may present as a painful, swollen lump that is red and warm to the touch.

4. Tumors: While less common, both benign and malignant tumors can present as lumps in the groin area. These can be soft tissue tumors or lymphomas.

5. Other Conditions: Conditions such as cysts, varicose veins, or even skin infections can also lead to lumps in the groin.

When to Seek Help
Given that your lump has been present for a month, has increased in size, and is associated with pain and discomfort, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. You should consider seeing a healthcare provider who specializes in either internal medicine or surgery, as they can perform a thorough examination, order necessary imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan), and possibly conduct blood tests to determine the underlying cause.

What to Expect During the Visit
During your appointment, the doctor will likely:
- Take a detailed medical history, including any recent infections, illnesses, or other symptoms you may have experienced.

- Perform a physical examination of the lump and surrounding areas.

- Discuss any additional symptoms you may have, such as fever, weight loss, or changes in appetite.

Possible Diagnostic Tests
Depending on the initial findings, your doctor may recommend:
- Imaging Studies: Ultrasound or CT scans can help visualize the lump and surrounding structures.

- Blood Tests: These can help identify signs of infection or inflammation.

- Biopsy: If there is a suspicion of a tumor, a biopsy may be necessary to determine the nature of the lump.

Conclusion
In summary, a lump in the groin that is hard, red, swollen, and painful is a symptom that should not be ignored. It could be due to various causes, including infections, hernias, or tumors. Seeking medical attention promptly will help in diagnosing the condition accurately and determining the appropriate treatment. Remember, early intervention is key to managing any potential health issues effectively.

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