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Definition:
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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.
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Alternative Names:
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Lump in the groin; Inguinal lymphadenopathy; Localized lymphadenopathy-groin; Bubo; Lymphadenopathy - groin
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Considerations:
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All groin lumps should be examined by your health care provider.
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Common Causes:
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Allergic reaction
- Cancer
- Drug reaction
- Harmless (benign) cyst
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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
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Swollen lymph glands in the groin area
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Home Care:
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Follow the therapy prescribed by your health care provider.
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Call your health care provider if:
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Make an appointment to see your health care provider if you have an unexplained groin lump, especially if it persists for more than 3 weeks.
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What to expect at your health care provider's office:
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The health care provider will examine you and may feel the lymph nodes in your groin area. A genital or pelvic examination may be done.
You will be asked 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 health care provider may also ask you detailed questions about your sexual activities.
Tests that may be done include:
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References:
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Armitage JO. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 171.
Tower RL II, Camitta BM. Lymphadenopathy. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 484.
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