Which Specialist Should You See for Persistent Underarm Swelling?

Which specialty should I consult for treatment?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you some questions.
Recently, I have been feeling a swelling and tightness in my left armpit (without any trauma or obvious redness).
I have previously visited a family medicine clinic for treatment, where I received anti-inflammatory injections and oral medications, which provided some relief, but after a few days, the swelling and tightness returned.
Based on what I have described, what could be the underlying issue? Which specialty should I consult for treatment? Thank you for your assistance.

pinggu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/27

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! First, to rule out any tumor issues, it is recommended to see a breast surgeon.
Next, consult an orthopedic specialist to exclude any musculoskeletal problems.
If everything is clear, we should consider the possibility of venous embolism, which may require a contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2016/04/27

More Info

When experiencing persistent swelling in the underarm area, it is essential to seek the appropriate medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive effective treatment. Based on your description of the symptoms—specifically, the feeling of swelling and tightness without any visible signs of redness or trauma—it is advisable to consider a few potential causes.

The swelling in your left armpit could be attributed to several factors, including lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), infections, or even benign or malignant tumors. Lymph nodes in the armpit can become swollen due to various reasons, including infections (such as bacterial or viral infections), inflammatory conditions, or even as a response to nearby infections (like a skin infection or an infection in the arm or breast). In some cases, more serious conditions such as lymphoma or breast cancer can also present with swollen lymph nodes.

Given that you have already sought treatment at a family medicine clinic and received anti-inflammatory injections and oral medications with only temporary relief, it may be time to consult a specialist for further evaluation. The most appropriate specialist to see for your condition would be a general surgeon or an oncologist. A general surgeon can evaluate the swelling, perform necessary imaging studies (such as an ultrasound or CT scan), and determine if any further intervention is needed. If there is a concern for malignancy, an oncologist would be the next step for specialized care.

Additionally, if there are any accompanying symptoms such as fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or changes in the skin over the area, it is crucial to mention these to your healthcare provider, as they can provide important clues about the underlying issue.

In summary, persistent swelling in the underarm area warrants further investigation. You should consider scheduling an appointment with a general surgeon or an oncologist to receive a thorough evaluation. They may perform a physical examination, order imaging studies, and possibly recommend a biopsy if necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital in addressing any potential underlying conditions effectively. Remember to keep track of any changes in your symptoms and communicate them to your healthcare provider for the best possible care.

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