Lump Above Groin: What Could It Be and Which Specialist to See?

There is a hard lump on the left side of the pubic area above the pubic hair?

Today, I suddenly felt a lump above my pubic area in the hair, about the size of half a finger joint, approximately 1.5 centimeters in size, and it hurts when pressed.
Which specialist should I see, and what could this symptom indicate?

Yu Huya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/23

Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology

Hello Mr.
Yu,
1.
You should consult a general surgeon for a physical examination, which can be followed by an ultrasound examination.

2.
The symptoms will be evaluated based on the examination results.
If further investigation is needed, a biopsy can be performed for confirmation.

Thank you, and I wish you peace and good health.

Radiation Oncology, Lai Yi-Cheng, concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2016/02/23

More Info

When you discover a lump above your groin, particularly in the area of the pubic hair, it can be concerning. The size you mentioned, approximately 1.5 centimeters and painful upon pressure, suggests that it could be a number of things. The most common causes of such lumps in the groin area include lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), cysts, or even hernias.
1. Lymphadenopathy: The groin area contains lymph nodes that can become swollen due to infections, inflammation, or malignancies. If you have had any recent infections, such as a cold or skin infection, this could be a reactive lymph node.
2. Cysts: Sebaceous cysts or epidermoid cysts can develop in the skin and may feel like lumps. These are generally benign but can become inflamed or infected, leading to pain.

3. Hernia: An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This can create a noticeable lump and may be painful, especially when straining or lifting.

4. Other possibilities: Less commonly, the lump could be related to conditions such as a lipoma (a benign fatty tumor), or in rare cases, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as a tumor.

Given the symptoms you described, it is advisable to see a healthcare provider who specializes in this area. The most appropriate specialist would be a general surgeon or a urologist. A general surgeon can evaluate the lump and determine if it requires surgical intervention, especially if it is a hernia or cyst that needs to be removed. A urologist specializes in the urinary tract and male reproductive organs, which may be relevant depending on the nature of the lump.

During your visit, the doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, to get a better understanding of the lump's characteristics. They may also ask about any accompanying symptoms, such as fever, weight loss, or changes in urination, which can help narrow down the diagnosis.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for a lump above the groin, the best course of action is to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough examination and appropriate diagnostic tests. Early evaluation is key to ensuring that any underlying issues are addressed promptly.

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