What is the significance of a 1 cm (bean size), movable, benign-appearing lymph node in the elbow of a 31-year-old woman?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 25, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for a 31-year-old woman with a bean-sized movable elbow lymph node considered benign

  • The patient's presentation suggests a benign lymph node, but it's essential to consider various diagnoses to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Single most likely diagnosis

  • Lipoma: A benign tumor composed of fat tissue, which is common in the elbow region and can present as a movable, bean-sized mass.

Other Likely diagnoses

  • Epidermal inclusion cyst: A benign cyst that can occur in the elbow region, often presenting as a movable, firm mass.
  • Ganglion cyst: A benign cyst that can occur in the elbow region, often presenting as a movable, firm mass.
  • Benign lymph node hyperplasia: A condition where lymph nodes become enlarged due to inflammation or infection, but are still considered benign.

Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)

  • Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can present with enlarged lymph nodes, which may be movable or fixed.
  • Metastatic cancer: Cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes, which may present with enlarged lymph nodes in the elbow region.
  • Tuberculosis: A bacterial infection that can cause lymph node enlargement, which may be movable or fixed.

Rare diagnoses

  • Neurofibroma: A rare benign tumor that can occur in the elbow region, often presenting as a movable, firm mass.
  • Desmoid tumor: A rare benign tumor that can occur in the elbow region, often presenting as a firm, movable mass.
  • Elbow hytrocyst: A rare benign cyst that can occur in the elbow region, often presenting as a movable, firm mass.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.