A lump in the pelvic area can be a source of worry, but these growths have many potential causes. They range from common, harmless conditions to less frequent, more serious issues. Understanding the various reasons a pelvic lump might appear and knowing when to seek medical attention is important.
Common Benign Causes of Pelvic Lumps
Many pelvic lumps are non-cancerous and often do not require extensive treatment. Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps that develop just under the skin. They are painless, movable, and grow slowly, often found in areas like the abdomen, neck, or thighs, but can occur in the pelvis. A doctor might recommend removal if they cause discomfort or grow significantly.
Sebaceous cysts or epidermoid cysts are another common type of benign lump. These form when a skin gland or hair follicle becomes blocked or damaged, leading to a sac filled with keratin. They feel smooth and are often found on the skin’s surface.
Enlarged lymph nodes can also present as lumps in the groin or pelvic region. Lymph nodes are part of the body’s immune system, filtering waste and fighting infection. They often swell in response to infections in the legs, genitals, or urinary tract. While usually a sign of the body fighting off a minor infection, persistent or unusually large lymph nodes should be evaluated.
Hernias are protrusions of an organ or tissue through a weak spot in muscle or connective tissue. In the pelvic area, inguinal hernias involve tissue bulging through the lower abdominal wall, often causing a noticeable lump near the pubic bone, which may become more prominent with straining. Femoral hernias, less common but more prevalent in women, appear as a lump in the upper inner thigh or groin. Both types can cause discomfort or pain, especially when standing or lifting.
Hematomas are collections of blood outside blood vessels. In the pelvic region, they can result from trauma, surgery, or childbirth, and can vary in size and severity. Abscesses are painful collections of pus, often due to bacterial infections. A pelvic abscess can cause a mass, high fever, and lower abdominal pain.
Muscle knots or spasms in the pelvic floor muscles can also be felt as tender, taut bands or areas of tension. These can result from muscle shortening, injury, stress, or various medical conditions affecting the pelvic region. Bone spurs are bony projections that can form along bone edges, including those in the pelvis. These growths are associated with aging and wear and tear on joints.
Less Common and More Serious Causes
While less frequent, certain pelvic lumps can indicate more serious conditions. Tumors, both benign and malignant, can occur in the bone or soft tissues of the pelvis. Benign bone tumors are non-cancerous growths that may cause pain or swelling. Examples include osteochondromas, which are overgrowths of cartilage and bone, and bone cysts, which are fluid-filled areas within the bone.
Soft tissue sarcomas are a type of cancer that can develop in connective tissues, including those in the pelvic region. These are less common but require prompt evaluation.
Infections like osteomyelitis, a bone infection, can affect pelvic bones. Symptoms often include fever, bone pain, stiffness, and localized swelling and warmth. This infection can result from bacteria spreading from another part of the body or from an injury.
Certain types of cysts might also be relevant. For example, ovarian cysts are common in women of reproductive age and can present as a pelvic mass, sometimes causing pain or pressure. Pilonidal cysts, while typically found near the tailbone, can present with symptoms that might be perceived as a pelvic lump.
Recognizing When to See a Doctor
Prompt medical evaluation is important if a new lump appears in the pelvic area, especially if certain characteristics are present. Seek medical attention if the lump experiences rapid growth or a sudden appearance.
Pain, tenderness, or discomfort associated with the lump warrants a doctor’s visit. Any changes in the skin over the lump, such as redness, warmth, discoloration, or ulceration, warrants evaluation. A lump accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fatigue is concerning.
Lumps that feel hard, fixed in place, or have an irregular shape should be examined by a healthcare professional. Any lump that causes concern or interferes with daily activities, such as walking or sitting, indicates a medical consultation is appropriate.
Understanding the Diagnostic Process
When consulting a doctor about a pelvic lump, the process typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. The doctor will ask about the lump’s onset, any associated symptoms, and your overall health history. During the physical exam, the doctor will palpate the area to assess the lump’s size, texture, mobility, and tenderness.
Imaging tests are often the next step to visualize the lump and surrounding structures. An ultrasound uses sound waves and is frequently a first-line test. A computed tomography (CT) scan provides detailed cross-sectional images, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers more detailed views. X-rays may be used to evaluate bone involvement.
Blood tests might be ordered to check for signs of infection, inflammation, or specific markers related to certain conditions. These tests help to narrow down the potential causes of the lump.
In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis. This procedure involves taking a small tissue sample from the lump for microscopic examination. A biopsy provides definitive information about the nature of the cells within the lump.