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Differential Diagnosis for Soft Growth on Chest

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Lipoma: A benign tumor composed of fat tissue, which is common in adolescents. The fact that the growth is soft and has started to get smaller suggests a lipoma, which can sometimes resolve on its own.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Cyst: A fluid-filled sac that can form under the skin, which is also common in adolescents. The lack of pain, redness, and breathing changes makes a cyst a plausible diagnosis.
  • Fibroadenoma: A benign breast tumor that can occur in adolescent females. Although it's more common in older adolescents, it's still a possible diagnosis.
  • Sebaceous cyst: A non-cancerous lump under the skin, which can be soft and mobile. The fact that the growth has started to get smaller could indicate a sebaceous cyst that has begun to resolve.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Breast cancer: Although extremely rare in 14-year-old females, breast cancer must be considered to avoid missing a potentially life-threatening diagnosis.
  • Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can cause a lump or mass in the chest, which requires prompt evaluation and treatment.
  • Infectious abscess: A collection of pus that can form under the skin, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. Although the lack of pain and redness makes this less likely, it's still essential to consider.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Dermatofibroma: A rare, benign skin growth that can occur in adolescents.
  • Hemangioma: A rare, benign tumor composed of blood vessels, which can occur in the skin or under the skin.
  • Neurofibroma: A rare, benign tumor that arises from nerve tissue, which can occur in the skin or under the skin.

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.

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