Abdominal mass: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003274.htm

To use the sharing features on this page, please enable JavaScript.

An abdominal mass is swelling in one part of the belly area (abdomen).

An abdominal mass is often found during a routine physical exam. Most of the time, the mass develops slowly. You may not be able to feel the mass.

Locating the mass helps your health care provider make a diagnosis. For example, the abdomen can be divided into four areas:

• Right-upper quadrant
• Left-upper quadrant
• Right-lower quadrant
• Left-lower quadrant

Other terms used to describe the location of abdominal pain or masses include:

• Epigastric — center of the abdomen just below the rib cage
• Periumbilical — area around the belly button

The location of the mass and its firmness, texture, and other qualities can provide clues to its cause.

Several conditions can cause an abdominal mass:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm can cause a pulsating mass around the navel.
• Bladder distention (urinary bladder over-filled with fluid) can cause a firm mass in the center of the lower abdomen above the pelvic bones. In extreme cases, it can reach as far up as the navel.
• Cholecystitis can cause a very tender mass that is felt below the liver in the right-upper quadrant (occasionally).
• Colon cancer can cause a mass almost anywhere in the abdomen.
• Crohn disease or bowel obstruction can cause many tender, sausage-shaped masses anywhere in the abdomen.
• Diverticulitis can cause a mass that is usually located in the left-lower quadrant.
• Gallbladder tumor can cause a tender, irregularly shaped mass in the right-upper quadrant.
• Hydronephrosis (fluid-filled kidney) can cause a smooth, spongy-feeling mass in one or both sides or toward the back (flank area).
• Kidney cancer can sometimes cause a smooth, firm, but not tender mass in the abdomen.
• Liver cancer can cause a firm, lumpy mass in the right upper quadrant.
• Liver enlargement (hepatomegaly) can cause a firm, irregular mass below the right rib cage, or on the left side in the stomach area.
• Neuroblastoma, a cancerous tumor often found in the lower abdomen can cause a mass (this cancer mainly occurs in children and infants).
• Ovarian cyst can cause a smooth, rounded, rubbery mass above the pelvis in the lower abdomen.
• Pancreatic abscess can cause a mass in the upper abdomen in the epigastric area.
• Pancreatic pseudocyst can cause a lumpy mass in the upper abdomen in the epigastric area.
• Spleen enlargement (splenomegaly) can sometimes be felt in the left-upper quadrant.
• Stomach cancer can cause a mass in the left-upper abdomen in the stomach area (epigastric) if the cancer is large.
• Uterine leiomyoma (fibroids) can cause a round, lumpy mass above the pelvis in the lower abdomen (sometimes can be felt if the fibroids are large).
• Volvulus can cause a mass anywhere in the abdomen.
• Ureteropelvic junction obstruction can cause a mass in the lower abdomen.

All abdominal masses should be examined as soon as possible by the provider.

Changing your body position may help relieve pain due to an abdominal mass.

Get medical help right away if you have a pulsating lump in your abdomen along with severe abdominal pain. This could be a sign of a ruptured aortic aneurysm, which is an emergency condition.

Contact your provider if you notice any type of abdominal mass.

In nonemergency situations, your provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms and medical history.

In an emergency situation, you will be stabilized first. Then, your provider will examine your abdomen and ask questions about your symptoms and medical history, such as:

• Where is the mass located?
• When did you notice the mass?
• Does it come and go?
• Has the mass changed in size or position? Has it become more or less painful?
• What other symptoms do you have?

A pelvic or rectal exam may be needed in some cases. Tests that may be done to find the cause of an abdominal mass include:

• Abdominal and pelvic CT scan
• Abdominal and pelvic ultrasound
• Angiography
• Barium enema
• Blood tests
• Colonoscopy
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
• Paracentesis
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Stool analysis
• Urine tests
• X-rays of the chest or abdomen

Mass in the abdomen

• Anatomical landmarks adult – front view
• Digestive system
• Fibroid tumors
• Aortic aneurysm

Ball JW, Dains JE, Flynn JA, Solomon BS, Stewart RW. Abdomen. In: Ball JW, Dains JE, Flynn JA, Solomon BS, Stewart RW, eds. Seidel’s Guide to Physical Examination. 10th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2023:chap 18.

Landmann A, Bonds M, Postier R. Acute abdomen. In: Townsend CM Jr, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 21st ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2022:chap 46.

McQuaid KR. Approach to the patient with gastrointestinal disease. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 123.

Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Upper left abdominal pain under ribs: 10 causes

People can experience pain under the ribs in the upper left abdomen for many reasons. Some possible causes include gastrointestinal issues and injuries to organs within the area.

The rib cage attaches to the breastbone and spine, and the ribs protect many vital organs. On the left side of the body, these organs include the:

• heart
• left lung
• spleen
• left kidney
• pancreas
• stomach

Below, we discuss 10 possible causes of upper left abdominal pain under the ribs and explain when a person with this symptom should see a doctor.

Share on PinterestPossible causes of upper left abdominal pain include IBS, IBD, and costochondritis.

Frequent pain in the abdomen can be a sign of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a collection of symptoms affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Symptoms can include:

• changes in bowel movements
• diarrhea
• constipation
• stomach cramps
• bloating
• white mucus in stools
• tiredness

Many different factors can cause IBS. It often occurs due to:

• stressful life events
• depression
• bacterial infection or changes in the gut
• food sensitivities or intolerances

People with IBS may benefit from making lifestyle changes, such as:

• increasing fiber intake
• taking probiotics
• doing more exercise
• reducing stress, for example, by practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques
• ensuring good sleep hygiene
• getting enough rest

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the umbrella term for conditions that involve chronic inflammation of the GI tract. The most common types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Symptoms of IBD include:

• pain in the abdomen
• frequent diarrhea
• blood in stools
• fatigue
• unintentional weight loss

A poorly functioning immune system can cause IBD, which certain medications can help treat.

Learn about the difference between IBS and IBD here.

Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone. A person may feel pain in the chest that worsens during a deep breath or while taking part in physical activity.

Taking pain relievers and applying warmth to the area can help treat costochondritis.

Anyone who experiences shortness of breath, a fever, or nausea alongside chest pain should seek medical help right away.

If an injury results in one or more bruised or broken ribs, a person may experience pain around the affected ribs as well as chest pain when breathing in. They may also have heard a crack at the time of the injury.

Damaged ribs usually heal on their own within 3–6 weeks. People can ease pain and help the healing process by:

• taking pain relievers
• applying a cold compress to the ribs to reduce swelling
• holding a pillow against the chest when coughing
• taking slow, deep breaths to clear the lungs of any mucus

Broken ribs can sometimes puncture surrounding organs. Therefore, someone with a broken rib should seek immediate medical attention if they:

• have worsening chest pain
• experience shortness of breath
• have shoulder pain
• are coughing up blood

There are other possible causes of painful respiration. Learn more here.

Share on PinterestA doctor may recommend pain relievers to a person with pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, and it can be acute or chronic. People may experience:

• tenderness or pain in the abdomen, which may spread to the back
• fever
• increased heart rate
• nausea
• a feeling of swelling in the abdomen

People with severe pancreatitis may have additional symptoms, such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

If a person thinks that they may have pancreatitis, they should see a doctor right away.

The severity of the condition will determine the treatment, which may include:

• pain relievers
• intravenous fluid and food
• rest
• surgery, in severe cases

Pericarditis causes sharp chest pain, which may also affect the upper left abdominal area. Other symptoms can include:

• fever
• coughing
• heart palpitations, which are sensations of the heart fluttering, skipping a beat, or pumping too hard or too fast
• tiredness

The pericardium consists of two layers of tissue that protect the heart and help it function. Pericarditis is inflammation of this tissue, and it often results from a viral infection.

Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, and plenty of rest can help treat pericarditis.

Chest pain from pericarditis can feel similar to a heart attack. People with chest pain should seek immediate medical treatment.

Gastritis is the medical name for inflammation of the stomach lining, which can result from:

• bacterial infection
• drug or alcohol overuse
• radiation exposure
• the body’s stress response to surgery or severe illness or injury

This inflammation can cause pain or discomfort in the upper left abdomen, and people may also experience nausea and vomiting.

Treatment for gastritis involves taking medications that help reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, allowing the lining to heal.

An infection of the left kidney can cause pain in the upper left abdomen. Other symptoms of a kidney infection can include:

• frequent urination
• pain when urinating
• pain in the back and groin
• fever
• nausea
• vomiting

Kidney infections can be dangerous, so a person with the above symptoms should see a doctor right away.

To treat the infection, a doctor usually prescribes antibiotics, which the individual receives either orally or through an intravenous drip.

Sometimes, a severe infection causes large abscesses to form on the kidney, and surgery to drain them might be necessary.

Small kidney stones can pass from the body painlessly in urine, but larger kidney stones can cause the following symptoms:

• pain in the abdomen and back
• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• nausea
• vomiting

Taking pain relievers and drinking plenty of water can minimize symptoms and help a kidney stone pass through the body. People with larger kidney stones may need shock wave treatment to break up the stones or surgery to remove them.

Pain in the upper left abdomen can indicate a problem with the spleen. The spleen can become enlarged due to infections or certain conditions, such as liver disease or rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms of an enlarged spleen include:

• feeling full soon after eating small amounts
• anemia
• fatigue
• bleeding easily
• frequent and recurrent infections

Doctors aim to treat the underlying cause of the enlargement. In the case of an infection, the person needs to complete a course of antibiotics.

Occasionally, an injury to the left side of the body can cause the spleen to rupture, leading to pain in the upper left abdomen, dizziness, and an increased heart rate.

A ruptured spleen is a medical emergency because it can cause extensive internal bleeding. If a person has the signs and symptoms of an enlarged or ruptured spleen following an injury to the area, they should receive immediate medical attention.

Learn more about the structure and function of the spleen here.

Share on PinterestA person should speak to a doctor if they experience weakness or black stools at the same time as abdominal pain.

Speak to a doctor about pain or discomfort in the upper left abdomen that is severe or occurs regularly.

See the doctor right away if any of the following symptoms accompany the abdomen pain:

• weakness
• black, tar-like stools
• blood in the stools, urine, or vomit

A person who experiences chest pain and shortness of breath, dizziness, or a fever should seek immediate medical care. Call 911 or the local emergency number.

Pain or tenderness in the left side of the upper abdomen under the ribs can result from a broken rib or any of a variety of conditions that affect the nearby organs. People may also experience pain in their chest or back.

If upper left abdominal pain is regular or severe, see a doctor to determine the cause. The doctor will present treatment options depending on the underlying condition.

Swelling under the left rib in front: causes and treatments

Swelling under the left rib in front can be due to various causes, such as inflammation, trauma or swelling. This article describes the main symptoms and possible causes of swelling, as well as recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.

Swelling under the left rib in front can be a sign of various diseases and conditions that require careful attention and medical intervention. Possible causes include organ inflammation, tumors, trauma, or other pathological processes.

One of the most common causes of swelling under the left anterior rib is inflammation of the spleen. This organ, located to the left of the stomach, can become enlarged due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or other causes. The swelling is accompanied by pain, discomfort, and may be a symptom of other splenic disorders such as a splenic abscess or tumor.

Other possible causes of swelling under the left rib in front may be tumors of the organs located in this area. For example, a tumor in the stomach or pancreas can cause enlargement and swelling. This may be accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of appetite, vomiting, weight loss, or jaundice. In such cases, a detailed examination and consultation of a specialist is required.

Treatment for swelling under the left anterior rib depends on the underlying cause. If the spleen is inflamed, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, or even surgery may be prescribed. Tumors require an individual approach to treatment, including surgical removal, chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

What is the swelling under the left rib in front?

Swelling under the left rib in front is swelling that protrudes from under the left rib on the front side of the body. It can have various causes and be a symptom of various diseases.

One of the possible causes of swelling under the left rib in front is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. It can be caused by various problems such as cirrhosis of the liver, cancer of the stomach or kidneys, and heart failure.

Another possible cause of swelling may be a tumor or cyst located in this area. They can be benign or malignant and require medical evaluation and treatment.

Swelling under the left rib in front can also be associated with problems with the digestive system, such as inflammation of the pancreas, stomach ulcers or intestinal obstruction.

It is important to see a doctor if swelling under the left anterior rib does not go away on its own within a few days or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, skin discoloration, or general discomfort.

Related videos:

The main causes of swelling under the left rib in front

1. Inflammatory diseases th diseases. For example, pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, can cause swelling in the area. Also, swelling can be associated with inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) or omental peritonitis – inflammation of the peritoneum.

2. Liver pathologies

Swelling under the left rib in front may be associated with liver pathologies such as cirrhosis, hepatitis or tumor. In the case of cirrhosis of the liver, swelling can be caused by impaired blood circulation in the organ and fluid retention in the abdominal cavity.

3. Hernia

Another possible cause of swelling under the left rib in front is a hernia. A hernia is a protrusion of internal organs or tissues through weak areas of muscles or ligaments. A hernia may occur in the abdomen and cause swelling under the left rib.

4. Enlargement of the spleen

If the spleen becomes enlarged, it may cause swelling under the left rib in front. Enlargement of the spleen can be due to various causes, including infections, tumors, or autoimmune diseases.

Q&A:

What can cause swelling under the left rib in front?

Swelling under the left rib in front can be caused by various reasons. One possible reason is an enlarged spleen. Other causes may be a tumor, cyst, abscess, or hernia. To determine the exact cause and prescribe treatment, an examination by a doctor is required.

What symptoms accompany swelling under the left rib in front?

Symptoms associated with swelling under the left anterior rib may include pain or discomfort in this area, feeling of heaviness, lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting, fever, weakness and fatigue. It is important to consult a doctor to find out the cause and treatment.

How is swelling under the left rib in front diagnosed?

Diagnosis of swelling under the left rib in front includes a physical examination, as well as the appointment of additional studies. Your doctor may order an ultrasound, CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging, or biopsy to get more information about the cause of the swelling.

What are the treatments for swelling under the left rib in front?

Treatment options for swelling under the left anterior rib depend on the cause. In some cases, such as an enlarged spleen, conservative treatment with anti-inflammatory and decongestant drugs may be required. In more serious cases, surgery may be required to remove the tumor, cyst, or abscess.

Can swelling under the left rib in front be dangerous?

A swelling under the left anterior rib can be dangerous, especially if it is associated with a serious condition such as cancer or infection. If the swelling is accompanied by severe pain, vomiting, fever, or other serious symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor for examination and treatment.

Is it possible to prevent swelling under the left rib in front?

Swelling under the left anterior rib can be caused by various diseases and conditions, such as a tumor, cyst, abscess, hernia, inflammation of organs such as the spleen or stomach, or trauma.

What symptoms may accompany swelling under the left rib in front?

Symptoms associated with swelling under the left anterior rib may include pain, discomfort, heaviness, a feeling of tension or pressure in the area of ​​swelling. There may also be other symptoms depending on the cause of the swelling, such as fever, nausea, vomiting, change in appetite, discoloration of the skin, etc.

How is swelling under the left anterior rib diagnosed?

Diagnosis of swelling under the left rib in front includes examination and evaluation of symptoms, as well as various diagnostic procedures, such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), x-ray, biopsy, and others.

What treatments can be used for swelling under the left anterior rib?

Treatments for swelling under the left anterior rib depend on the cause of the swelling. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the tumor or cyst. Anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics may be used to treat inflammatory conditions. In some cases, conservative treatment may be required, such as the use of painkillers or physical therapy.

Can swelling under the left rib in front be dangerous?

Swelling under the left anterior rib can be dangerous, especially if it is associated with a tumor, abscess, or other serious disease. In such cases, surgery or other specialized treatments may be required. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor to diagnose and determine the cause of the swelling.

Symptoms of swelling under the left rib in front

Swelling under the left rib in front can be a sign of various diseases and conditions that require attention and medical intervention. The presence of symptoms of swelling under the left rib in front may indicate problems with the organs located in this area.

One of the most common symptoms of swelling under the left anterior rib is pain or discomfort in the area. In this case, there may be an increase in pain when pressing on the swelling or when moving. There may also be swelling or redness around the swelling.

Another symptom of swelling under the left rib in front may be a violation of the functions of the organs located in this area. For example, swelling may be accompanied by dysfunction of the spleen, which may manifest as fatigue, weakness, changes in appetite, or increased susceptibility to infections.

Also swelling under the left rib in front may be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying disease. For example, if there is an infection, a fever may occur, and if a tumor is present, weight changes, general weakness, or dysfunction of other organs may occur.

In any case, if there is swelling under the left rib in front, it is necessary to consult a doctor to diagnose and determine the cause of this symptom. Only an experienced specialist will be able to make the correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis of swelling under the left anterior rib

If a swelling occurs under the left anterior rib, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis in order to determine the cause of this condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment. First of all, a visual inspection and palpation of the swelling is carried out to determine its size, shape and consistency.

Various laboratory tests may be ordered, such as blood, urine, and biochemical tests. These studies allow you to identify the presence of inflammatory processes, disorders in the functioning of internal organs and other pathologies that may be associated with swelling.

For a more accurate diagnosis, instrumental studies such as ultrasound (ultrasound), computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be ordered. These methods allow you to obtain detailed information about the structure and condition of the internal organs, which helps to determine the source of swelling.

In some cases, a biopsy may be required, in which a tissue sample is removed from the swelling for further examination under a microscope. This allows you to determine the nature of the swelling, for example, to identify the presence of a tumor or an infectious process.

It is important to see a qualified doctor if swelling occurs under the left anterior rib in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment depending on the cause of this condition.

Treatment of swelling under the left rib in front

Swelling under the left rib in front can be caused by various causes, and the treatment depends on the underlying disease. However, in most cases, swelling is the result of inflammation or swelling, and requires medical attention.

If the swelling is caused by inflammation, your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to fight the infection. Anti-inflammatory drugs may also be recommended to reduce swelling and reduce pain. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the pus or drain the abscess.

If the swelling is associated with a tumor, then the treatment will depend on its type and stage of development. The doctor may recommend surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of different methods. In some cases, additional treatment, such as immunotherapy or hormonal therapy, may be required.

It is important to see a doctor if there is swelling under the left front rib, as this may be a sign of a serious illness. Early contact with a specialist will help to establish an accurate diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment.

Drug treatments for swelling under the left anterior rib

Swelling under the left anterior rib can be caused by various causes, such as inflammation, trauma, or swelling. To treat this symptom, various medicinal methods can be used to help cope with the problem.

Anti-inflammatory drugs are one of the main medicinal methods. They help reduce inflammation and reduce swelling in the area of ​​swelling. The doctor may prescribe medications such as nekstatin, diclofenac, or ibuprofen according to the individual patient.

Local anesthetics and decongestants may be used to relieve pain and reduce swelling. They help relieve symptoms and improve the general condition of the patient. Examples of such preparations are lidocaine ointment or heparin ointment.

If the swelling is caused by an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. They will help to cope with the infection and eliminate its cause. Follow your doctor’s instructions and take your medications as directed.

In addition, the doctor may recommend the use of drugs that improve the patient’s general condition and promote rapid recovery. These can be preparations containing vitamins and minerals, as well as immunomodulators.

Drug treatments for swelling under the left anterior rib should be prescribed by a doctor according to the cause and nature of the symptoms. It is important to follow all the recommendations and, if necessary, seek the advice of a specialist.

Surgical treatment of swelling under the left rib in front

Swelling under the left rib in front can be caused by various causes, such as a hernia, tumor, cyst or other pathologies. In some cases, when conservative treatment fails, surgery may be required.

One of the surgical methods for treating swelling under the left anterior rib is laparoscopic surgery. This is a minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeons to operate by making small incisions in the abdomen using special instruments and a camera. Laparoscopic surgery has fewer risks and faster patient recovery compared to open surgery.

Another treatment option may be open surgery, in which a larger incision is made in the abdomen. This method may be required in cases where it is necessary to remove a large tumor or perform a complex operation. However, this method has more risks and requires a longer recovery period.

After surgery, the patient may be prescribed a rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medications, and regular follow-up examinations to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

Prevention of swelling under the left rib in front

Swelling under the left rib in front can be caused by various causes, including trauma, inflammation, tumors, etc. However, there are ways to prevent the occurrence of this symptom.

An important aspect of the prevention of swelling under the left anterior rib is a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity helps to maintain the normal functioning of organs, including the digestive system, which reduces the risk of inflammation and tumors.

It is also important to watch your diet. The diet should be balanced and include enough nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Eating a large amount of fatty and fried foods can adversely affect the digestive system and contribute to the development of inflammatory processes.

In addition, regular medical examinations will help to identify possible diseases at an early stage and prevent their development. Doctors recommend having a check-up once a year, especially for people over 40 years old.

In general, to prevent swelling under the left rib in front, you need to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat right, exercise regularly and monitor your health. This will help reduce the risk of developing various diseases and related symptoms.

Rib cancer – symptoms, methods of treatment, prevention and diagnosis

Ribs in the body of each person are arcuate bones connected to the spinal column and sternum to protect the located internal organs of a person from negative external influences.

Rib cancer is a rare and severe malignancy that most commonly affects children and males, and women are rarely affected. The danger of rib cancer is that, due to the location of these bones, the resulting metastases quickly spread to the heart and lungs.

The latent course is that a person does not have pain in the ribs in the early stages of cancer, which seriously reduces the chances of timely detection of the disease and successful future treatment. A malignant formation can occur in any rib, which becomes a difficult test for the patient, since even with successful treatment there is no guarantee that a relapse will not occur.

Causes of rib cancer

The main causes of rib cancer are:

• gene mutations that disrupt metabolic processes in bone tissue and contribute to the fact that cancer can form on the chest on the rib;
• radioactive radiation accumulated in bone tissue during the treatment of any other disease using radiation therapy;
• the use of food products with a high content of carcinogens that have a negative effect on the DNA of cells;
• autoimmune processes occurring in the body and having a negative impact on metabolic processes in bone tissue;
• frequent and prolonged intoxication with harmful substances that accumulate in the bones;
• lung cancer with rib metastases.

The disease can occur under the influence of several causes at once, or in some cases gradually develop in the human body for absolutely no reason.

Signs, symptoms and manifestations of rib cancer

Rib cancer is a malignant lesion of tissues in the body with atypical and infiltrating growth of cancer cells. The main manifestation of this disease is pain in the chest. At first, pain in the rib with cancer does not bother the person or is insignificant. After a while, it becomes more intense and uncomfortable.

Cancer of the rib bone can be Ewing’s sarcoma or osteosarcoma, in which long-term pain is not relieved by taking analgesics. Often, pain during the formation of cancer on the chest on the rib is felt when inhaling and intensifies at night.

A visible neoplasm is rarely seen, because the growth of the tumor deep into the sternum is mainly noted. In some cases, the doctor may feel for a loose seal. With progression, the tumor increases, the vascular network protrudes, the skin stretches, swells and turns red. Some types of sarcomas begin to hurt a lot when pressed, while others develop absolutely painlessly. For example, pain in the ribs may occur with lung cancer.

Symptoms and manifestations of rib cancer:

• fever;
• increase in anemia;
• feeling of general weakness;
• the appearance of neurological disorders in the form of paranoia or excessive agitation;
• shortness of breath with lung involvement;
• ribs hurt with cancer.

Timely detection and correct effective treatment give people a favorable chance for recovery.

Stages of rib cancer

Stages of oncology of the rib are determined on the basis of the histological examination and the data obtained from the instrumental examination:

• Stage I – low-grade tumors without the presence of metastases;
• Stage II – highly malignant tumors without the formation of metastases in cancer;
• III stage – without metastases with the presence of foci of cancer in the rib bone;
• Stage IV – tumors with metastases in different organs or in regional lymph nodes.

When should I see a doctor?

A sign of possible serious health problems is the feeling of pain in the rib with cancer. In case of weakness, increased fatigue and sudden weight loss for no apparent reason, it is recommended to contact a general practitioner who, after passing all the necessary tests and suspecting rib cancer, will send you to an oncologist, a radiologist and a chemotherapy specialist.

Qualified specialists of the oncological clinic “Sofia” in Moscow provide the necessary assistance and receive patients in departments located near the Mayakovskaya, Belorusskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Tverskaya and Chekhovskaya metro stations.

Diagnosis of rib cancer

MRI and radionuclide methods are the most informative method for detecting oncology at the Sofia Cancer Center in Moscow. These are PET/CT, scintigraphy and SPECT.

Early diagnosis with MRI helps to detect cancer at an early stage. The use of radionuclides is based on the property of their accumulation in areas of the body with ongoing metabolism. In the study, a substance with a weak isotope is injected into the vein, which, when irradiated, makes it possible to study cellular metabolism. The obtained results allow choosing the right treatment strategy and monitoring its effectiveness.

Radionuclide diagnostics are presented in the following types of examinations:

• PET/CT – the results of radionuclide distribution are superimposed on CT images to increase the accuracy of disease detection;
• SPECT – with its help, three-dimensional projections of areas of possible localization of cancer are created;
• scintigraphy is used to create three-dimensional images and registers the slightest malfunctions in the functioning of organs.

Competent diagnostics will allow to differentiate this disease from lung cancer with metastases to the ribs.

Drawing up a plan for the treatment of rib cancer

An examination plan for a disease is noted after an x-ray, which gives an idea of ​​the ongoing process in the human body. The tactics of treating the patient and the prepared plan are determined by the doctor in accordance with the data obtained from the examination.

Treatment of rib cancer

At the Sophia Oncology Center in Moscow, the following procedures are performed for the treatment of rib cancer:

• chemotherapy;
• surgical treatment;
• radiation therapy;
• fractionated radiotherapy.

Rib cancer prognosis and prevention

There are different prognosis of rib cancer in this disease. Patients with aggressive cancer and metastases rarely live beyond 5 years. At stage 4 cancer, they can live for several months. The prognosis worsens with a large size of the neoplasm or the absence of the possibility of an operation. A pathological fracture of the rib in oncology can also occur.

Health status and age also play an important role. For example, children, unlike adults, tolerate treatment more easily and recover much faster.

Prevention of rib cancer consists in conducting periodic medical examinations of people who are at high risk. It also requires a serious approach to the treatment of precancerous pathologies, including benign bone neoplasms.

If you are visiting our website, you or your loved ones may have been diagnosed with cancer. We ask you to take a short survey and answer a few questions so that we can supplement the page with useful information.

How to make an appointment with a specialist?

Our specialists carry out prompt diagnostics of any oncological diseases. Doctors determine not only the type of cancer, but also its degree. Thanks to the use of modern equipment and the latest medical technologies, we can be sure of the accuracy of the results obtained. This is influenced by the high professionalism, as well as the experience of the doctors of the clinic.

To make an appointment, you can call +7(495)995-00-33, order a call back or fill out the request form.