What Causes Painful Lump on the Right Side Rib Cage for Female?

Painful lumps on the right rib cage can be due to several conditions affecting the chest wall and surrounding structures. Some common causes include costochondritis (inflammation of rib cartilage), swollen lymph nodes from infection, and healing rib injuries. The specific location and characteristics of the lump, along with any accompanying symptoms, can help determine the underlying cause. Abscesses can also form in the chest wall tissue, causing painful, swollen areas that may feel like lumps. These develop when bacteria cause a localized infection, leading to a collection of pus that can be tender to touch. In women, breast lumps can sometimes extend to the rib area, particularly when breast tissue reaches toward the side of the chest. This is especially true for those with dense or fibrocystic breast tissue. In some cases, benign tumors like lipomas (fatty tissue growths) may form beneath the skin, while rarely, more serious tumors like sarcomas can affect the soft tissues or bones. It is important to remember that each of these conditions is different. Any painful lump should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.