Differential Diagnosis for a Lump

• Single most likely diagnosis:
  • Lipoma: This is a common, benign tumor composed of fat tissue that can appear as a lump under the skin. It's often soft, movable, and painless, making it a frequent diagnosis for lumps.
• Other Likely diagnoses:
  • Cyst: A cyst is a closed capsule or sac-like structure, typically filled with liquid, semisolid, or gaseous material. It can appear as a lump and is common in various parts of the body.
  • Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body, indicating a local infection. It can present as a painful lump.
  • Hematoma: A hematoma is a collection of blood outside of blood vessels, which can occur due to injury and present as a lump.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed):
  • Cancer (e.g., breast cancer, lymphoma): Although less common than benign causes, cancer can present as a lump. Early detection is crucial for treatment and survival.
  • Infected cyst or abscess: If left untreated, these can lead to serious infections, including sepsis.
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Though less common as a cause for a lump, DVT can present with swelling and a palpable lump in the affected limb and is a medical emergency due to the risk of pulmonary embolism.
• Rare diagnoses:
  • Dermatofibroma: A benign skin growth that can appear as a lump, often resulting from minor injury, insect bite, or trauma.
  • Neurofibroma: A benign tumor of the nerve tissue that can present as a lump, more common in individuals with neurofibromatosis.
  • Granuloma: A small area of inflammation that can appear as a lump, often due to infection or inflammation.