Persistent Armpit Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice

There is a lump in the armpit?

After breastfeeding for 1 to 2 months, I experienced a blocked milk duct with a lump under my armpit that was painful but eventually resolved.
However, I later noticed another hard lump under my armpit, approximately 2 centimeters in size, which is not painful and has not gone away despite trying various treatments.
Initially, I thought it might be related to breastfeeding, but this lump has been present for almost a year with no signs of disappearing.
I'm unsure if there is another underlying issue.
Which specialist should I consult?

Rong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/10

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Rong, 26 years old, female.
I have an unexplained lump in my armpit about 2 cm in size (not painful) that has been present for almost a year with no signs of disappearing.
Which specialty should I consult? General Surgery or Breast Surgery? Thank you for your response, and I wish you a speedy recovery.
Taoyuan Hospital, Cancer Center, Dr.
Chen Si-Rong.

Reply Date: 2019/01/10

More Info

Persistent lumps in the armpit can be concerning, especially when they do not resolve over time. Given your history of breastfeeding and the development of a hard lump that has persisted for nearly a year, it is important to seek medical advice to rule out any underlying issues.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for breastfeeding mothers to experience changes in breast and surrounding tissue, including the armpit area. Milk ducts can become blocked, leading to the formation of lumps, which may be painful or tender. However, if a lump persists for an extended period, such as a year, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

The hard lump you describe, measuring about 2 centimeters and being painless, could be due to several reasons. Some possibilities include:
1. Lymphadenopathy: The lymph nodes in the armpit can become enlarged due to infections, inflammation, or other conditions. While these are often associated with pain or tenderness, some lymph nodes can remain enlarged without discomfort.

2. Sebaceous Cysts: These are non-cancerous lumps that can form under the skin when sebaceous glands become blocked. They can vary in size and may not cause pain.

3. Fibroadenomas: These are benign tumors that can occur in breast tissue and may extend into the armpit area. They are typically painless and can be firm to the touch.

4. Breast Cancer: Although less common, it is crucial to rule out breast cancer, especially if there is a persistent lump that does not change over time.
5. Other Conditions: There are various other conditions, such as infections or inflammatory processes, that could lead to the formation of lumps in the armpit.

Given the duration and characteristics of the lump, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. You may want to start with your primary care physician, who can perform a physical examination and may refer you to a specialist, such as a breast surgeon or an oncologist, if necessary.
During your appointment, be prepared to discuss your medical history, any symptoms you have experienced, and any changes in the lump over time. Your doctor may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or mammogram, to evaluate the lump further. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to determine the nature of the lump.

In summary, while some lumps in the armpit can be benign and related to breastfeeding, a persistent lump that has not resolved over a year warrants further evaluation. Seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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