Adam Rufa - 11/20/2006

Question
Hello Adam:

I have had a swollen, ill-defined lump on my right thigh (just below my hip) for about a year and a half now.  I play competitive volleyball, so I just assumed it was a bruise for a little bit, but it has been there for too long to be a bruise.  It is about 4-6 inches long and slightly off-colored, though the coloring is very hard to notice.  It does not hurt unless I press on it hard, and then it is sort of uncomfortable.  

I am only 20 years old, and am in very good shape.  The lump, however, kind of looks like a fat area on my otherwise well-defined leg.  In addition, I have recently had sharp pain shooting up and down the calves of both of my legs.  

Do you have any idea what this could be?  

Should I go to the doctor?

Answer
Kristen

I would suggest having your doctor take a look at it. My expertise is in Musculoskeletal disorders and this is out of my area.

It is rather common to have lipomas (fatty tumors) however, the skin over them is usually not discolored.

Get in to see you doctor.

Adam