Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： Please pay attention to whether the swelling is related to the onset of menstruation. <br>If it is a phenomenon that occurs consistently before your period, then it is likely not a concern. <br>However, if it is not related to your menstrual cycle, please consult a general

There is a lump in the armpit?

Hello, Doctor.
About a month ago, I noticed swelling in the area of my axillary accessory breast tissue, approximately two centimeters in size, which is painful to the touch.
It was gradually subsiding, but suddenly swelled up again last week.
I have experienced similar situations in the past where the swelling would disappear after a few days.
Should I be concerned about my health? If I want to seek further medical advice, which department should I visit?

Xiao Jiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/10

Dr. Chen Yunfang reply Oncology

Hello: Please pay attention to whether the swelling is related to the onset of menstruation.
If it is a phenomenon that occurs consistently before your period, then it is likely not a concern.
However, if it is not related to your menstrual cycle, please consult a general surgeon (breast surgeon) and get an ultrasound to determine if a fine needle aspiration biopsy is necessary.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2017/10/10

More Info

When it comes to lumps under the armpit, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness. The presence of a lump, especially one that is painful and has fluctuated in size, can be concerning. In your case, the lump you described, which is about two centimeters in size and has shown a tendency to swell and then recede, warrants further evaluation.

Firstly, it is important to understand that lumps in the armpit can arise from various causes. They may be related to lymph nodes, which can become enlarged due to infections, inflammation, or other underlying conditions. Infections, such as those caused by bacteria or viruses, can lead to lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), which may present as painful lumps. Other potential causes include cysts, lipomas (benign fatty tumors), or even more serious conditions such as tumors, both benign and malignant.

Given that your lump has been painful and has recurred, it is advisable to seek medical attention. The first step would be to consult a primary care physician or a family doctor. They can perform a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to assess the situation better. Based on their findings, they may refer you to a specialist, such as a dermatologist or an oncologist, for further evaluation if necessary.

In terms of diagnostic procedures, your doctor may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or a mammogram, to get a clearer picture of the lump's characteristics. In some cases, a biopsy may be warranted to determine the nature of the lump, especially if there is a concern about malignancy.

It is also important to monitor any accompanying symptoms. If you experience fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or persistent pain, these could be signs of a more serious condition and should prompt immediate medical attention.

In summary, while many lumps under the armpit can be benign and related to common issues such as infections or cysts, the recurrence and pain associated with your lump suggest that it is prudent to seek medical advice. Start with your primary care physician, who can guide you through the necessary steps for diagnosis and treatment. Early evaluation and intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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