Groin lump
The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. It is an important part of the immune system. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Common areas where lymph nodes can be easily felt, especially if they are enlarged, are: the groin, armpits (axilla), above the clavicle (supraclavicular), in the neck (cervical), and the back of the head just above hairline (occipital).
Also known as: Lump in the groin, Inguinal lymphadenopathy, Localized lymphadenopathy-groin, Bubo or Lymphadenopathy - groin
- Allergic reaction
- Cancer
- Drug reaction
- Harmless (benign) cyst
- Hernia (usually a soft, large bulge in the groin on one or both sides)
- Infections in the legs
- Injury trauma to the groin area
- Lipomas (harmless fatty growths)
- Sexually transmitted diseases such as genital herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhea
- Swollen lymph glands in the groin area
- When did the lump develop?
- Is it on one side or both?
- How big is it?
- Did it occur suddenly or develop slowly?
- Is it always present or does it come and go?
- Does it get larger when coughing or straining?
- Has there been any unusual physical activity recently?
- What symptoms do you have?
- Blood tests such as a CBC or blood differential
- Blood tests to check for syphilis, HIV, or other sexually transmitted diseases
- Kidney function tests
- Liver function tests
- Liver spleen scan
- Lymph node biopsy
Definition
A groin lump is localized swelling in the groin area (where the upper leg meets the lower abdomen). It may be firm or soft, tender or not painful at all.
Considerations
All groin lumps should be examined by your health care provider.
Common Causes
Home Care
Follow the therapy prescribed by your health care provider.
Call your health care provider if
Make an appointment to see your doctor if you have an unexplained groin lump, especially if it persists for more than 3 weeks.
What to expect at your health care provider's office
The doctor will examine you and may feel the lymph nodes in your groin area. A genital or pelvic examination may be done.
The doctor will ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, such as:
The doctor may also ask you detailed questions about your sexual activities.
Tests that may be done include:
References
Armitage JO. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier. 2007: chap 174.
Camitta BM. Lymphadenopathy. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th Ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 490.
Glover KY, Varadhachary GR, Lenzi R, Raber MN, Abbruzzese JL. Carcinoma of unknown primary. In: Abeloff MD, Armitage JO, Niederhuber JE, Kastan MB, McKenna WG, eds. Clinical Oncology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa; Churchill Livingstone Elsevier; 2008: chap 98.
- Review date:
- August 2, 2009
- Reviewed by:
- Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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