Post-cancer Treatment: Is a Lump a Sign of Cancer Recurrence? Decode the Different Types of Lumps with these 5 Tips

Cancer has long been the number one enemy of Hong Kongers, striking fear into our hearts at the mere mention of its name. After enduring the arduous journey of chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and targeted therapies, the discovery of a new lump in the body raises concerns: could it be a sign of cancer recurrence?

Don't Fret! There are Various Types of Lumps

Lumps on the body can be caused by factors unrelated to cancer, such as scar tissue, viral infections, or fibrous tissue. However, they could also be benign tumors or malignant tumors resulting from cancer cell recurrence or metastasis. Since the physical condition and lifestyle habits of each cancer survivor vary, along with factors such as the type and duration of cancer treatment received, accurately diagnosing the type of lump that appears after treatment still requires reliance on medical imaging or evaluation.

Expert advice from an oncologist highlights that benign tumors typically do not possess the ability to spread and only grow in their original location. There is a lower chance of them developing into cancer. As long as regular check-ups are conducted and they are monitored, there is no need for specific treatment, and they pose no significant threat to one's life. However, if a benign tumor grows in the brain, blood vessels, or nerves, it may exert pressure or damage the surrounding neural pathways, leading to potential symptoms and risks. In severe cases, it can result in permanent impairment of neurological function. In such situations, the management of these benign tumors needs to be carefully considered.

Self-Examination 5-Step Guide

If a lump is visible or can be felt, individuals can perform a self-examination to distinguish between benign and malignant tumors. Here are the 5 steps for self-examination:

1. How is the hardness?

Benign tumors typically feel softer and have a slightly elastic texture, as if filled with fluid. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, tend to feel firm and rigid when touched.

2. Is the shape regular?

Benign tumors often have a smooth, round shape, while malignant tumors tend to have irregular shapes, some even showing uneven surfaces.

3. Is there any ulceration?

Benign tumors do not ulcerate. However, due to their rapid growth, malignant tumors can develop non-healing or ulcerated wounds, and in severe cases, they may even necrotize.

4. Is it movable?

Gently pushing the lump, if it doesn't slide or move easily, there's a high likelihood that it is a benign tumor. In contrast, the inability to move the lump raises the possibility of a malignant tumor. Malignant tumors tend to infiltrate and adhere to surrounding tissues, preventing them from being easily movable.

5. Has it grown in size?

The size of a benign tumor typically remains unchanged over a long period of time. In contrast, malignant tumors can rapidly increase in size and become more prominent. If a lump grows by 5 mm or even 10 mm within a month, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial.

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