A patient reports a new lump superior to their groin with a burning sensation. What is the likely diagnosis?

The likely diagnosis in this scenario is an inguinal hernia due to the specific symptoms and location described. An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, often a portion of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This typically presents as a lump in the inguinal region, which is located in the groin area.

The burning sensation reported by the patient can also be associated with the discomfort or pain that often accompanies hernias, particularly if the hernia becomes incarcerated or strangulated. The symptoms can manifest as a noticeable lump that may vary in size and that becomes more prominent when coughing or straining.

In contrast, a femoral hernia, which occurs lower than an inguinal hernia in the groin area, might present a lump as well but is less common and typically involves a different demographic. Varicocele, which is an enlargement of veins within the scrotum, usually presents with a different set of symptoms such as a dull ache or heaviness and is not typically associated with a lump in the groin. Hydrocele relates to fluid accumulation around the testicle and also does not present as a lump superior to the groin in the same manner as inguinal hernia