Belly swelling and lump on upper left abdomen.

[LMM2008]

I have noticed a lump on my left upper abdomen for atleast a few months. It seems to be getting bigger and my entire palm fits right over it. It doesn't hurt, it's not hard and does not move around. But I have had a lot of issues for awhile now with my belly swelling to the point I feel it will pop. M doctor thinks that might be part f the reason for the swelling. It doesn't matter what size meal I eat or what I drink either. I no longer have a gall bladder. It was taken out 6 years ago and I was treated for Pancreatitice then as well. I have a lot of indigestion and gas and I was recently put on a med to help the constipation and heartburn. My doctor is sending me to a surgeon Monday. She seems to think it may be a Lipoma, but she wants it checked out anyway. What concerns me is that I have had lots of blood tests and scans done last year and nothing seems to come back with an answer. But the bloat continues and now a lump shows up. I googled the symptoms the other day and Ovarian Cancer popped up. All of my symptoms were on that list, which scares the life out of me. What I am afraid of is that all the tests are going to come back again, no problem and then what. I am so tired of this swelling and my lower back hurts all the time now. What should I expect from this surgeon. And what questions should I be asking him.

[LMM2008]

Thank you for your advice. I went this morning to the surgeon and he does want a CT scan done this afternoon. I will take your advice and thanks again.
Lisa

[gah_70]

Although nothing other than surgery can give you a definite answer, see if the surgeon will send you for a CT.  That can help identify if there is blood flow to this mass, and help determine further testing.  Ovarian cancer symptoms mimic symptoms of so many other things, but you also don't want to let this go without some kind of answer.  It's possible it could be gastro issues, but your doctor is right to be concerned and refer you to a surgeon.  One thing to keep in mind, however, is that if it is possible it is anything dealing with ovarian cancer, surgery needs to be performed by a gynecological oncologist, not a regular surgeon.  Gyn/oncs are specially trained to handle gynecological cancers and have the best chance at removing it intact, as well as removing any cancer that may have spread to other areas.  It is important, so don't let the regular surgeon "bully" you into letting him/her perform this surgery if there is even the slightest possibility of gynecological cancer.  

Best wishes to you.

Gail