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| Definition: |
Localized swelling in the groin area. It may be firm or soft, tender or not painful at all.
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| Alternative Names: |
Hernia; Lump in the groin
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| Considerations: |
| All groin lumps should be examined by your health care provider. |
| Common Causes: |
- hernia (usually a soft, large bulge in the groin on one or both sides)
- A hernia is bigger when standing and recedes when lying down. It can often be pushed back with the finger (see inguinal hernia and femoral hernia).
- enlarged lymph glands in the groin area
- a local infection
- generalized drug reaction
- allergic reaction
- a viral infection
- a malignancy
- trauma to the groin area
- sexually transmitted diseases
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| Home Care: |
| Follow the therapy prescribed by your health care provider. |
| Call your health care provider if: |
- there are groin lumps that persist more than 3 weeks.
- an unexplained groin lump is present.
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| What to expect at your health care provider's office: |
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting your symptom in detail may include:
- time pattern
- When did the lump develop?
- Did it occur suddenly or develop slowly?
- Is it always present or does it come and go?
- location
- Is it on one side or both?
- How big is it?
- other
- Does it get larger when coughing or straining?
- What is the sexual history (detailed questions may be asked)?
- Has there been any unusual physical activity recently?
- What other symptoms are also present?
The physical examination may include palpation (touch) of lymph nodes in the groin and elsewhere. A genital or pelvic examination may be performed.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:Intervention:
Treatments may include antibiotics if appropriate. For a hernia, surgery may be recommended.
After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to a groin lump, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record. |
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Review Date: 12/5/2001
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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