What Does A Lump On Back Indicate?

Posted on Tue, 7 Oct 2014

Question: Hi! I am a 21 year old female and have noticed a small hard ball in my back. It is located in the left side, it is right under my ribcage on the back left side. I have recently started working out and lost about ten pounds and thats when I noticed it! It is hard, almost feels like a bone. It doesn't necessarily hurt at all but it kind of freaks me out! You cannot see it but you can feel it if you press in the spot. I don't know how long it has actually been there but I have noticed it for about seven months! I have not been to a doctor about it because it does not really hurt, however I do not know if it is something I need to get checked.
Any ideas what it could be? or if I should be worried?

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (37 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It looks like Sebaceous cyst.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
As per your description, it looks like a Sebaceous cyst.
It will not cause any symptoms unless it gets infected.
Another common condition is Lipoma, a fat swelling. But, it will not be that hard.
You need not to worry unless it causes symptoms.
If you wants to remove,
There are 2 options.
First, to get it removed surgically and sending it for histopathological examination.
Secondly, FNAC ( Fine Needle aspiration Cytology ) of the swelling can be done and the diagnosis will be confirmed. Then, you can proceed accordingly.
I prefer the first option.
Please consult your Surgeon and get examined clinically.
Nothing to worry.
If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju

Follow up: Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (17 minutes later)

You cannot see the ball, you can only feel it. It also has not grown in size since I have noticed it. So since you cannot see it could it still be a cyst? I will get it checked by my doctor too but I am just wondering!

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It could be a cyst

Detailed Answer:
Hi
It looks like a subcutaneous swelling.
Still it could be sebaceous cyst.
Please consult your Surgeon and get examined clinically.
Regards

Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju