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Lymphatic system
Lymphatic system

Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
Swollen lymph nodes in the groin

Groin lump

Definition:

A groin lump is localized swelling in the groin area. It may be firm or soft, tender or not painful at all.



Alternative Names: Lump in the groin; Inguinal lymphadenopathy; Localized lymphadenopathy-groin; Bubo; Lymphadenopathy - groin

Considerations:

All groin lumps should be examined by your health care provider.



Common Causes:
  • Allergic reaction
  • Cancer
  • Drug reaction
  • Enlarged lymph glands in the groin area
  • Hernia (usually a soft, large bulge in the groin on one or both sides)
  • Infection
  • Injury trauma to the groin area
  • Sexually transmitted disease


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:

  • 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?

The doctor may also ask you detailed questions about your sexual activities.

Tests that may be done include:



References: Henry PH, Longo DL. Enlargement of lymph nodes and spleen. In: Kasper DL, Braunwald E, Anthony S. Fauci AS, eds. Harrison's Internal Medicine. 16th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2005.

Review Date: 7/17/2007
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Professor of Endocrinology, Department of Biology, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH, and physician in the Primary Care Clinic, Cincinnati Veterans Administration Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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