Understanding Lumps: Causes, Types, and When to See a Doctor

A lump is a small, abnormal mass of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Benign lumps are not cancerous and do not spread to other parts of the body, while malignant lumps are cancerous and can invade nearby tissues and organs.
Lumps can occur in any part of the body, including the breast, thyroid gland, lymph nodes, and soft tissue. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as infection, inflammation, cysts, or tumors.
Some common types of lumps include:
Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can form in various parts of the body.
Fibroadenomas: Benign tumors that are made up of glandular and fibrous tissue.
Lipomas: Fatty tumors that are usually benign but can sometimes be malignant.
Thyroid nodules: Abnormal growths on the thyroid gland that can be benign or malignant.
Breast lumps: Can be caused by a variety of factors, including cysts, fibroadenomas, and cancer.
Soft tissue sarcomas: Malignant tumors that develop in the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Lymphoma: Cancer of the immune system that can cause lumps in the lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
If you notice a lump anywhere on your body, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for an evaluation. Your doctor may perform a physical examination, take a medical history, and order diagnostic tests such as imaging studies or a biopsy to determine the cause of the lump. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the lump.