Published on: 5/6/2025
A lump below the sternum can be caused by superficial soft-tissue lesions such as a lipoma or cyst, or even infections like tuberculosis affecting the xiphisternal area.. It's important to have any new lump evaluated by a doctor.
There are several possibilities for the cause of a lump in the upper abdomen just below your sternum. One common explanation is a benign soft-tissue lesion such as a lipoma or an epidermal inclusion cyst, which are non-cancerous growths that can form in the skin or just below it. In other cases, infections may be involved. For example, tuberculosis can affect the chest wall near the xiphisternum, leading to inflammation and the formation of a lump in that area. Additionally, conditions affecting the sternum itself can present as a mass felt below the sternum. Doctors typically use imaging techniques such as ultrasound to assess these superficial lesions. The imaging not only helps to define the size and characteristics of the lump but also to rule out more serious issues. Because the nature of these lumps can vary widely, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and, if necessary, appropriate treatment.
(References)
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Grover SB, Arora S, Kumar A, Grover H, Katyan A, Nair DM. "Caught by the Eye of Sound" - Epigastric Swelling due to Xiphisternal Tuberculosis. Pol J Radiol. 2017 Jan 27;82:41-45. doi: 10.12659/PJR.899329. PMID: 28217237; PMCID: PMC5292989.
Abid W, Hentati A, Ben Halima G, Rebai M, Lasmar A, Gouiaa N, Frikha I. A diagnostic pitfall of a sternal mass. Clin Case Rep. 2021 Jul 21;9(7):e04418. doi: 10.1002/ccr3.4418. PMID: 34306682; PMCID: PMC8294146.
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