There are various causes of a lump on the collarbone. These include fractures, infection, enlarged lymph nodes, cysts, and tumors. Treatments depends on the underlying cause.
The collarbone, also called the clavicle, is a long and thin bone that runs between the sternum and shoulder blade. It connects the arm to the body and is situated near many nerves and blood vessels.
Lumps on or near the collarbone have many causes, with some requiring medical attention. It is important to contact a doctor for a diagnosis if a person has concerns about a lump on the collarbone.
Read on to learn more about what can cause a lump on the collarbone, other symptoms that might arise from each cause, treatment options, and more.
There are many reasons a person might experience a lump on their collarbone, including fractures, infections, enlarged lymph nodes, and more.
Collarbone fracture
A collarbone injury, such as a fracture or break, can sometimes cause a lump or bump to form. The severity of the injury can range from a simple fracture to a complex break that separates the bone into several pieces.
Other symptoms of a collarbone injury include:
- shoulder sagging
- limited range of movement
- grinding, bruising, swelling, and pain
Injuries that lead to a collarbone injury or break include falls, motor vehicle accidents, or an injury to the baby during childbirth.
Doctors can diagnose these types of injuries using imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans.
Enlarged lymph nodes
The body has hundreds of lymph nodes. Lymph nodes produce lymph fluid. This fluid contains infection-fighting white blood cells.
Most people have experienced swollen lymph nodes on the sides of their neck during a bout with the cold or flu, but swollen lymph nodes may also occur near the collarbone.
In most situations, the underlying cause of swollen lymph nodes is a virus. However, a doctor may wish to take a sample of the lymph fluid if they suspect a different cause, such as cancer. They may also order a biopsy. A biopsy involves removing part or all of the lymph node.
Symptoms that may occur alongside enlarged lymph nodes include:
- swelling and tenderness
- signs of an infection or fever
- night sweats
- hard lump
Cyst
In some cases, a cyst or tumor may cause a lump on the collarbone.
Cysts are filled with fluid and are not usually cancerous. A type of cyst called a ganglion cyst is common on the hand and wrist, but
A doctor may recommend treating a cyst only if it causes pain or affects movement.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis can cause swelling, which may look like a lump. Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone.
Other symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
Young children with osteomyelitis may also seem irritable or chronically tired.
Osteomyelitis can occur following an injury, surgical procedure, or placement of an intravenous (IV) line near the collarbone. Diabetes, wounds, and fractures
Without treatment, osteomyelitis can lead to serious complications. It is important to contact a doctor as early as possible if a person suspects a bone infection.
Tumor
In
Some people
A giant cell tumor
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Although cancerous and noncancerous tumors rarely grow on the collarbone, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis for a lump in this area, as medical treatment may be necessary.
Learn about what can cause collarbone pain.
The treatment of a collarbone lump depends on what is causing the lump.
Collarbone fracture or injury
Nonsurgical treatment of a collarbone injury may include:
- arm support
- pain management
- physical therapy
If a person has a severe break or fracture, surgery may be necessary. A surgeon can use metal pins, screws, and plates to realign the bone and help it heal in the right place.
Enlarged lymph nodes
A doctor will try to diagnose the cause of enlarged lymph nodes and treat any underlying infection.
In many cases, enlarged lymph nodes go away on their own with rest and fluids after around 1–2 weeks. If bacteria are causing the infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
Cyst
Treatment for a cyst may only be necessary if a person experiences pain or if the cyst affects their movement.
If doctors do recommend treatment, this may include aspiration. It involves using a needle to draw out the fluid.
In some cases, open surgery or arthroscopy may be necessary.
Osteomyelitis
Treatment for osteomyelitis varies depending on the severity of the infection and a person’s symptoms.
In addition to prescribing strong antibiotics, a doctor
Tumor
A tumor may require surgical removal, depending on whether it is cancerous or not. This
A person’s doctor can advise on whether surgery is necessary.
Here are some frequently asked questions about lumps on the collarbone.
What does a lump on your collarbone mean?
A lump on the collarbone has many possible causes, such as a fracture, bone infection, cyst, or tumor. A doctor can help determine the cause of the lump based on a person’s symptoms, medical history, and the results of any diagnostic tests.
Can you have cancer in your collarbone?
It is rare for cancer to affect the collarbone, but it is possible.
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This means it is important to seek medical advice if a person has concerns about a lump or tumor, as it may indicate cancer in some cases.
Are there lymph nodes on your collarbone?
The lymph nodes above the collarbone are called the supraclavicular lymph nodes. They are part of
To check lymph nodes in the collarbone area, experts recommend hunching the shoulders and bringing the elbows forward, then feeling the collarbone.
Learn more about swollen supraclavicular lymph nodes.
Does a lymphoma lump on the collarbone hurt?
It is
It is important to contact a doctor as soon as a person has concerns about a lump on the collarbone, regardless of whether it causes pain.
Possible causes of a lump on the collarbone include a collarbone fracture, infection of the bone (osteomyelitis), enlarged lymph nodes, and a cyst. In rare cases, it may also be due to a benign or malignant tumor.
Treatment for a lump on the collarbone depends on the underlying cause. Some lumps, such as enlarged lymph nodes and cysts, may resolve without medical treatment. Others, such as a fracture, infection, or tumor, require medical attention.
It is important to contact a doctor as soon as a person has concerns about a lump on the collarbone. The doctor can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend a suitable treatment plan.