What could cause a painful lump in the abdomen?

There are several reasons why someone might feel a painful lump in their belly. One possible cause is a lymphangioma, which is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor of the lymphatic vessels. Sometimes, these can occur in the pancreas and cause pain. Another possibility is an infected mesenteric cyst. The mesentery is a tissue that holds your intestines in place, and if a cyst there gets infected, it can become painful and swollen. Also, bleeding inside the belly, known as an abdominal hematoma, can create a lump and cause discomfort. In children, a painful abdominal lump can also be tricky to diagnose because it might be due to different conditions that look similar. While these are some known causes of a painful lump in the abdomen, only a healthcare provider can make a proper diagnosis by using tests like imaging studies and a physical exam. If someone experiences this symptom, you can start by taking a free symptom checker assessment to help understand possible causes before seeking medical care promptly.