Noticed a lump or swelling? A soft tissue ultrasound can help determine what it is and provide peace of mind.
What is Soft Tissue Ultrasound?
Soft tissue ultrasound imaging examines body swellings to determine whether they're fluid-filled or solid. This distinction is important for diagnosis and treatment planning.
What Can It Detect?
Soft tissue ultrasound is suitable for patients presenting with:
- Lumps - unexplained bumps under the skin
- Enlarged lymph nodes - swollen glands
- Infections - areas of inflammation
- Hematomas - collections of blood
- Masses - abnormal growths
- Inflammation - swollen tissues
- Cysts - fluid-filled sacs
- Abscesses - pockets of infection
- Tumours - both benign and cancerous
- Hernias - tissue pushing through muscle
- Lipomas - fatty lumps
- Ganglions - cysts near joints or tendons
What Information Does the Scan Provide?
The ultrasound provides detailed diagnostic information including:
- Size - precise measurements of the abnormality
- Consistency - solid, fluid-filled, or mixed
- Location - exactly where it sits in relation to other structures
- Appearance - characteristics that help with diagnosis
The Good News
While finding a lump can be worrying, it's reassuring to know that most lumps and bumps are not sinister. Many are completely benign conditions like:
- Lipomas (fatty lumps)
- Cysts
- Enlarged lymph nodes from minor infections
- Ganglion cysts
Why Get Checked?
Even though most lumps are harmless, getting them checked provides:
- Peace of mind - knowing what it is
- Early detection - if it does need treatment
- Documentation - a baseline for monitoring changes
- Guidance - on whether further investigation is needed
Have a lump or bump you'd like checked? Contact Ultrasound Ireland at 01 210 0232 for a lumps and bumps assessment.
Tags:ultrasoundsoft-tissuelumpsmedical-scans
