Axillary Lymph Nodes: Pain, Swelling, and Concerns - Breast and Thyroid

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When it comes to axillary lymph nodes, pain and swelling can be concerning symptoms, especially when they are accompanied by other signs such as warmth and tenderness. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing discomfort in your left axilla (armpit) area, with a sensation of swelling and possibly a hard lump. You mentioned that you had a chest CT scan in July, which indicated the presence of some lymph nodes in the axillary region, and that the recommendation was to follow up in the outpatient clinic.

Firstly, it's important to understand that lymph nodes play a crucial role in the immune system. They act as filters for harmful substances and are often the first place that the body responds to infections or other diseases. Swelling of lymph nodes, known as lymphadenopathy, can occur due to a variety of reasons, including infections, inflammatory conditions, or malignancies.

In your case, the pain and swelling in the axillary region could be due to several factors:
1. Infection: Localized infections, such as a skin infection or an infection in the arm or breast, can lead to swollen lymph nodes. If there is an infection, the lymph nodes may become tender and painful as they work to filter out the pathogens.

2. Inflammation: Conditions such as autoimmune diseases can cause lymph nodes to swell. If you have a history of autoimmune issues, this could be a contributing factor.

3. Malignancy: While it is less common, swollen lymph nodes can also indicate the presence of cancer, either in the lymph nodes themselves (lymphoma) or metastasis from another site (such as breast cancer). However, this is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fever.

Regarding your previous ultrasound that indicated the presence of accessory breast tissue (supernumerary breast tissue), it is indeed possible for this tissue to become tender or painful, especially if there is hormonal fluctuation or if it is subject to irritation. However, this would typically not cause significant lymph node swelling.

Given that you have had imaging studies that showed some lymph nodes but did not indicate any malignancy, it is essential to consider the context of your symptoms. If the pain and swelling persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as fever, significant weight loss, or night sweats), it would be prudent to seek further evaluation.
In general, if lymph nodes remain swollen for more than two weeks without improvement, or if they continue to grow, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further assessment. This may include additional imaging studies or a biopsy if there is a concern for malignancy.

In summary, while the presence of axillary lymph nodes can be a normal finding, especially if they are small and non-tender, your symptoms warrant careful monitoring. If you experience any changes or worsening of your symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.