Painful Lump in Armpit: Should You Worry About Cancer?

There is a hard lump in the armpit that is very painful?

I have recently noticed a hard lump in my armpit that is painful, especially when touched.
The skin surface has a slight redness, and the lump is nearly 4 centimeters in size.
There is a small wound near the lump.
Should I go to a major hospital for an examination? Is there a possibility that it could be a malignant tumor? Will surgery be necessary?

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/09

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology

It sounds like it may just be a subcutaneous abscess.
I recommend that you first consult a general surgeon.
Alternatively, you can keep the area dry and clean, and if it does not increase in size over a period of time, you can simply monitor it.

Reply Date: 2017/10/09

More Info

When you discover a painful lump in your armpit, it can understandably cause concern, especially regarding the possibility of cancer. The symptoms you describe—a hard, painful lump measuring nearly 4 centimeters, with some redness on the skin surface and a small wound nearby—warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that lumps in the armpit can arise from various causes, including benign conditions such as infections, cysts, or swollen lymph nodes, as well as malignant conditions like lymphomas or metastatic cancer. The presence of pain, redness, and a wound near the lump may suggest an inflammatory process, which could be due to an infection or an inflammatory response to a benign growth. However, these symptoms can also be associated with more serious conditions, including cancer.

Given the size of the lump and the associated symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A visit to a hospital or a specialized clinic is recommended, where a healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and order appropriate imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or a CT scan, to assess the lump's characteristics. These imaging studies can help determine whether the lump is solid or cystic and whether there are any signs of lymph node involvement.

In addition to imaging, a biopsy may be necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lump to be examined under a microscope. This procedure can help differentiate between benign and malignant conditions. If the lump is found to be cancerous, further tests may be required to determine the type of cancer and its stage, which will guide treatment options.

As for the question of whether surgery is needed, it depends on the diagnosis. If the lump is benign and not causing significant symptoms, it may be monitored rather than surgically removed. However, if it is malignant or if there is a significant risk of complications, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the lump and possibly surrounding tissue.

In summary, while the presence of a painful lump in the armpit can be alarming, not all lumps are cancerous. However, due to the potential seriousness of the situation, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, especially if cancer is involved. Do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for a thorough assessment and appropriate management.

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