OpenHealth Q&A

Growth on Collar Bone Accompanied by Weight Loss and Persistent Chills

In early 2024, I noticed a swelling on my right collarbone that measured roughly the size of a half grape. Initially, I attributed it to something long-standing, especially as I was experiencing some unintentional weight loss. The lump was small and did not cause any discomfort. However, by late 2024, the growth had increased to the size of a ping pong ball. I began to experience pain radiating to my shoulder while performing simple tasks like folding laundry or scrubbing surfaces. Due to a lengthy wait for my new primary care physician (PCP) appointment, I sought help at urgent care on February 10, 2025. They performed an x-ray and subsequently referred me to the hospital for a CT scan and ultrasound. Unfortunately, these examinations did not yield informative results, and I was advised to follow up with my PCP for a CT scan with contrast. During this period, I was also plagued by constant chills, night sweats, low-grade fevers each evening, extreme fatigue, and significant weight loss without any effort. Additionally, I felt a burning sensation in my stomach below the sternum, which was intensifying. On March 14, 2025, I managed to consult a nurse practitioner. Regrettably, she barely assessed the lump, which had now increased to the size of an egg. Her focus was primarily on addressing my previously managed PTSD, devoting two hours to that discussion while spending less than five minutes talking about the lump itself. She ordered a CT scan, but it produced results that remained inconclusive. At this point, she suggested that a collarbone fracture might be responsible, disregarding the growth and my accompanying symptoms. I have never experienced a collarbone fracture. The radiologist who evaluated the scan asserted that the hard, egg-sized lump had likely been present all along due to my significant weight loss. This was incorrect. Consequently, I scheduled an appointment with a different PCP from another medical group. On May 28, 2025, I met with my new PCP to share my symptoms and express how the previous nurse practitioner had largely dismissed my concerns and wrongly asserted the lump was an existing issue. My current doctor ordered further scans to clarify the situation. On June 7, 2025, I underwent another CT scan, during which the findings indicated that the egg-sized mass should not be causing my pain. It was described as hard, not related to my lymph nodes, yet I was experiencing pain nonetheless. Additionally, a mass was detected in my left lung, and they recommended a follow-up scan in six months. The lump remains on my collarbone and is sensitive to touch. The upper section of it now presses against my trachea, making it painful to use my right arm. I continue to suffer from constant chills, nightly sweats, extreme fatigue, and very limited appetite—I can only manage a few bites before feeling overwhelmingly full. My stomach is in constant pain, and since November 2024, I have lost over 70 pounds. What could be the underlying issue here?

Answers (1)

7/18/2025, 12:40:45 PM

OpenHealth AI

I'm really sorry to hear about the distressing symptoms you're experiencing, including the growth on your collarbone, persistent chills, significant weight loss, and your ongoing gastrointestinal discomfort. Given your history and the multiple symptoms, it's understandable that you'd feel anxious about your health.

Main Points

Your symptoms suggest a serious underlying condition that needs thorough investigation. The lump, weight loss, power fatigue, and other systemic issues could indicate a malignancy or another serious illness requiring urgent attention and a tailored diagnostic approach.

Explanation

Various factors could be contributing to your symptoms:

• Lump on the Collarbone: This could be a benign growth (like a lipoma or cyst) or something more serious, including potential malignancies.
• Weight Loss & Chills: These can be indicators of systemic illness. Chronic conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or malignancy can cause these symptoms.
• Pain and Discomfort: The growth pressing against your trachea and causing pain and limited arm movement needs targeted investigation.
• Night Sweats and Fatigue: Commonly associated with infections, inflammatory conditions, or hematological disorders.

These symptoms collectively require more than standard imaging; they often indicate a need for a biopsy or further surgical evaluation.

Next Steps

1. Document & Track Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including any changes in the lump's size, pain intensity, appetite, and other systemic effects.
2. Set Timelines for Follow-ups: Since you have a follow-up scan scheduled, prepare questions to ask your physician about further diagnostic options, like a biopsy of the lump.
3. Consider Specialist Referrals: Given the complexity of your symptoms, request a referral to a specialist if warranted, such as an oncologist or a thoracic surgeon, depending on results.
4. Monitor Your Nutrition: Since your appetite is severely affected, focus on small, nutrient-dense meals and consider meal replacements or supplements to help maintain your nutritional status.
5. Manage Pain & Discomfort: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications (after checking with your doctor) may help alleviate your shoulder pain and discomfort.

Seek immediate medical help if you encounter worsening symptoms like severe shortness of breath, high fever, or increasing pain. It's crucial not to ignore these developments while awaiting tests or appointments.

Your experience with health care providers has been frustrating, but advocating for yourself is essential. Share your complete symptom history with your incoming doctor, emphasizing the need for comprehensive attention to your situation.