Movable Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice

There is a hard lump in the armpit?

A few days ago, I felt some soreness near my right armpit and thought it was just a simple strain.
While massaging the area, I discovered a movable lump that causes slight pain when pressed.
It feels small, and from the outside, there is no protrusion or redness.
I can only feel it in certain positions.
Could this be a tumor or something else? Do I need to get it checked? I'm a bit worried, thank you.

Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/22

Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology

Dear Miss Hsiao-Yu,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Without having seen your condition in person, it is difficult to answer your questions.
I recommend that you return to the hospital to consult with a surgeon or a dermatologist.

Best regards,
Dr.
Lai Yi-Cheng
Department of Radiation Oncology
Changhua Hospital

Reply Date: 2016/04/22

More Info

When it comes to movable lumps under the armpit, it is essential to understand that there can be various causes for such lumps, and not all of them are serious. The presence of a movable lump in the armpit area, especially if it is small, non-tender, and not associated with redness or swelling, could be indicative of several benign conditions. However, it is crucial to monitor the lump and any accompanying symptoms.

One common cause of movable lumps in the armpit is swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes can become enlarged due to infections, inflammation, or other benign conditions. For instance, if you have recently had a cold or an infection, your lymph nodes may react by swelling. This is a normal immune response, and the lumps may be tender to touch. In many cases, these swollen lymph nodes will resolve on their own as the underlying infection clears up.

Another possibility is the presence of a lipoma, which is a benign tumor made of fat tissue. Lipomas are generally soft, movable, and painless. They can occur anywhere in the body, including the armpit area. While lipomas are harmless, if they grow larger or cause discomfort, it may be worth discussing their removal with a healthcare provider.

In some cases, the lump could be a cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac that can develop in various tissues. Cysts can also be movable and may or may not be painful. Like lipomas, cysts are usually benign, but they can become infected or inflamed, leading to discomfort.

However, it is essential to be cautious and not dismiss any new or unusual lumps, especially if they persist, change in size, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or persistent pain. These could be signs of a more serious condition, including lymphoma or other malignancies, which require prompt medical evaluation.

Given your description of the lump being movable and only slightly painful, it is likely benign, but it is always best to err on the side of caution. I recommend scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, order imaging studies or a biopsy to determine the nature of the lump.

In summary, while movable lumps under the armpit can often be benign, it is essential to monitor them closely and seek medical advice if you have any concerns. Early evaluation can provide peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Remember, your health is paramount, and it is always better to consult a professional when in doubt.

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