I have a lump in my groin. What can it be?

Expert answer:

In general, a groin in the groin is a lymph node (lymph node) that is increased due to inflammation or infection near the site. The ganglion may also increase in cases of lower limb infection, STDs, rheumatic diseases, allergies or even cancer.

The lymph nodes are small defense organs located in the lymphatic vessels pathway, which can retain, destroy or delay the proliferation of microorganisms and cancer cells throughout the body. Lymph node enlargement means that the body is responding to some infection or to aggressive agents.

If the groin node is due to cancer, it increases in size, becomes hardened, but usually does not cause pain. In general, the growth is slow, the skin does not turn red, there is no local temperature increase and its surface is irregular.

When the core is the result of a inflammation, its growth is rapid, there is pain in the place, the skin that covers the lump becomes reddish and its surface is regular and smooth.

However, the groin nodule may also be a sign of inguinal hernia. In this case, the "lump" is the result of the displacement of a part of the intestine through a hole in the abdominal wall.

Learn more at: What is inguinal hernia and what are the symptoms?

If the groin persists for more than two weeks, see a general practitioner or family doctor. Depending on the case, it may be necessary to perform a biopsy to identify the origin of the nodule.

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