Mysterious lump in my Flower Horn

Question
I have already asked this question and please understand up front that I am NOT asking a salt water question.  I have a 60 gallon fresh water tank and so far have had 2 Flower Horn cichlids.  The first was about 9" when he died due to the power going out for a week due to Hurricane Ivan.  We bought another one, a female I think, from just a baby and now she is about 6".  About 3 months ago I noticed a small "lump" on her right side.  There was no damage to her scales at all.  I thought at first she has swallowed rocks since she is always rearranging her furniture.  But now, that lump is showing on her left side.  And it is really big!  She was eating her normal food and about twice a week I was giving her a treat of dried shrimp.  She used to really love it.  but now, she won't eat anything.  She doesn't even run up to the top of the tank anymore to eat.  I really hate to see her suffer - if she is.  I've been to every pet store in town and they have offered all kinds of different water treatments but nothing has helped.  Any ideas?

Answer
I'm going to be upfront from the get go, I do not have a definate this is what is answer. Being there is not discolorations to the scales and they appear ok tells me most likely not an ulcer, plus they do not move from one side to the other. I did a little looking and from everything I could find your problem sounds like it is either a tumor or possible kidney problem, but being the swelling is so large on the left side I would strongly lean toward a tumor. With my efforts to find a treatment for the tumor I was unsuccessful, being she is not eating at all is not a good sign either. If it is kidney related the symtoms you describe could be parasite or bacteria related but again your fish has no discoloration on or by the lump.
I wish I could be of more help. On a personal note, if she were my fish I would humanely destroy her at this point rather than permit her to starve. Best of luck...again I'm sorry I could not be of more assistance.