[18F] Experiencing a painful lump at the breast-shoulder junction

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Lipoma: A lipoma is a slow-growing, fatty lump that's most often situated between your skin and the underlying muscle layer. It's not cancer and is usually harmless. A lipoma feels soft and isn't painful, making it easier to diagnose than other skin problems.

  • Treatment: If the lipoma is on a pressure-bearing area, it may create discomfort and should be removed. Removal can often be done under local anesthesia via outpatient surgery.

• Cyst: A cyst is a sac-like pocket of tissue that contains fluid, air, or other substances. They can grow almost everywhere in the body or under the skin. There are many different types of cysts, and they can be caused by infections, genetic conditions, a defect in the cells, or blocked ducts.

  • Treatment: If a cyst is causing discomfort, it can be drained or removed. Some cysts can be observed over time to see if they disappear on their own.

• Lymphadenopathy: This is a condition where the lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped glands throughout the body, become enlarged. This is often a response to infection or disease, including common illnesses like the cold or flu. Some autoimmune diseases or cancers can also cause this condition.

  • Treatment: Treatment depends on the cause. If it's due to an infection, antibiotics or antivirals may be prescribed. If it's due to an autoimmune condition or cancer, more specific treatments will be required.

Please note that these are just possibilities, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

It's important to get this lump checked out by a healthcare professional. They can examine the lump and may order tests like an ultrasound or biopsy to determine what it is.

In the meantime, try not to squeeze or irritate the lump, as this could potentially cause further discomfort or complications.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• The lump grows rapidly or changes in size, shape, or color
• You experience severe pain
• You notice redness, warmth, or swelling in the area, which could indicate an infection
• You develop a fever or other signs of infection

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.