What is the significance of a recently darkened and changed belly button mole, previously deemed benign 7 years ago, in a 31-year-old female with palpable left elbow lymph nodes, shoulder tension, and intermittent fullness under the left ribs?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
DS

Dainyal Siddiqui, MD

Internal Medicine

MJ

Manuel Jimenez, MD

Cardiology

FP

Franz Pierre-Louis, MD

Infectious Disease

Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 1, 2025 • View editorial policy

Differential Diagnosis

  • Single most likely diagnosis + Benign skin lesion with reactive lymphadenopathy: The patient's dermatologist previously assessed the belly button mole as benign 7 years ago, and the recent darkening could be due to various non-cancerous factors. The palpable left elbow lymph nodes could be reactive, especially given the recent history of an ingrown hair and shoulder tension, which may have caused localized inflammation.
  • Other Likely diagnoses + Melanoma with lymph node metastasis: Although the dermatologist previously deemed the mole benign, the recent change in appearance warrants further investigation. Melanoma can metastasize to lymph nodes, and the patient's symptoms, such as the darkening of the mole and palpable lymph nodes, could be indicative of this. + Lymphadenitis: The patient's history of an ingrown hair and shoulder tension could have led to localized inflammation, causing lymphadenitis. This condition can cause lymph nodes to become palpable and tender. + Costochondritis: The patient's complaint of fullness under the left ribs could be related to costochondritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.) + Metastatic cancer: Although the patient's symptoms may seem benign, it is essential to consider the possibility of metastatic cancer, particularly given the recent change in the mole's appearance and the presence of palpable lymph nodes. + Lymphoma: Lymphoma can cause lymphadenopathy, and the patient's symptoms, such as the palpable lymph nodes and fullness under the ribs, could be indicative of this condition.
  • Rare diagnoses + Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: This is a rare type of skin cancer that can cause a change in the appearance of a mole. Although it is unlikely, it is essential to consider this possibility, especially given the patient's recent symptoms. + Angiosarcoma: This is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that can cause a change in the appearance of a mole. Although it is unlikely, it is crucial to consider this possibility, especially given the patient's recent symptoms.

Related Questions

What are the findings of the computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen (ABD) and pelvis, with and without contrast (w/wo), performed on March 20, 2025?
What is the appropriate management for a 26-year-old male with a history of vertebral fracture, back pain, paresthesia in the right leg, and a palpable breast mass with a family history of cancer?
What is the treatment for urinary bladder spasm?
What is the management plan for a 26-year-old male with a history of vertebral fracture, back pain, paresthesia, and a breast mass, with a family history of cancer?
What is the required time interval between two separate Hemoglobin (Hb) A1c tests greater than 6.5% to diagnose type 2 diabetes?
Why is tonsillectomy performed for recurrent streptococcal (Streptococcus) infections?

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.

Ask a new Question. Chat with the Guidelines