Doctors Note Logo

Published on: 8/20/2026

What causes tender lump under right rib cage?

A tender lump under the right rib cage may result from several possible causes, including:

  • Hernia – tissue pushing through a weak spot in the abdominal wall
  • Lipoma – a soft, benign fatty growth beneath the skin
  • Costochondritis – inflammation of the rib cartilage
  • Liver or gallbladder issues – such as an enlarged liver or gallstones
  • Tumor – rare, but possible in some cases

Because the causes range from harmless to serious, identifying the source of the lump early matters. A quick, free online symptom check can help you understand what may be causing your discomfort and guide your next steps—whether that's monitoring at home or seeing a doctor. It takes only a few minutes, requires no sign-up, and gives you personalized insights based on your specific symptoms. Getting clarity now can save you time, worry, and unnecessary delays in care.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

answer background

Quick answers

Frequently Asked Questions

4 answers

The most common questions people search after this page

Concerned about your symptoms?

Explanation

Under your right rib cage, tissues can sometimes form a lump when there is a weak spot in the abdominal muscles which allows fatty or intestines to protrude outwards from the abdomen. This is called a hernia. This may feel tender when you press on it. Another possibility is a lipoma, which is a soft, usually harmless fatty growth that can form under the skin. Although lipomas are mostly painless, they can cause discomfort if they become irritated. In less common situations, a tender lump could be due to a small tumor growing from the bone or surrounding tissues. These growths may also produce discomfort. It is important to remember that many of these conditions are not serious, but if the lump is painful, growing, or causing you worry, you can use Ubie's free AI symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine whether you should seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can examine the lump, perform any needed tests, and decide on the proper treatment.

(References)

  • Conze J, Klinge U, Schumpelick V. Hernias. In: Holzheimer RG, Mannick JA, editors. Surgical Treatment: Evidence-Based and Problem-Oriented. Munich: Zuckschwerdt; 2001.

  • Lichon S, Khachemoune A. Clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and treatment of hand lipomas: a review. Acta Dermatovenerol Alp Pannonica Adriat. 2018 Sep;27(3):137-139. PMID: 30244263.

  • Yang E, Li T, Katz A. A giant cell tumor of the bone in the rib cage left to proliferate unfettered for seven years to an extensive size. Respir Med Case Rep. 2021 May 1;33:101419. doi: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2021.101419. PMID: 34401267; PMCID: PMC8348908.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.