Axillary Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice - Oncology

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Axillary swelling, or swelling in the armpit area, can be concerning, especially when it appears suddenly or changes in size. It’s good to hear that you have already undergone a mammogram and an ultrasound, which have shown no immediate issues. However, given that you have noticed a significant change in the size of the swelling, it is important to understand the potential causes and when to seek further medical advice.


Possible Causes of Axillary Swelling
1. Lymphadenopathy: The most common cause of axillary swelling is lymphadenopathy, which refers to the enlargement of lymph nodes. This can occur due to infections (such as viral or bacterial infections), autoimmune diseases, or malignancies (cancers). In your case, since the swelling is bilateral, it may suggest a systemic issue rather than a localized infection.

2. Lipomas: These are benign tumors made of fat tissue that can develop in the axillary region. They are usually painless and soft to the touch.

3. Cysts: Sebaceous cysts or other types of cysts can form in the armpit area and may present as swelling.

4. Infections: Conditions such as abscesses or infections in the skin or underlying tissues can lead to swelling. However, you mentioned that there is no pain or inflammation, which makes this less likely.

5. Breast Conditions: Although your recent breast ultrasound was normal, conditions such as fibrocystic changes or other benign breast diseases can sometimes cause axillary swelling due to lymphatic drainage.

6. Malignancies: While less common, certain cancers, including breast cancer or lymphoma, can present with axillary swelling due to lymph node involvement.


When to Seek Medical Advice
Given that the swelling has increased in size and is significantly noticeable, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. Here are some specific situations when you should consider consulting a healthcare professional:
- Persistent Swelling: If the swelling does not decrease or continues to grow, it warrants further investigation.

- Changes in Symptoms: If you start experiencing pain, tenderness, fever, or any other systemic symptoms (like weight loss or night sweats), you should seek medical attention promptly.

- Family History: If there is a family history of breast cancer or other malignancies, it is prudent to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

- New Symptoms: If you develop new symptoms such as changes in breast tissue, skin changes, or any other unusual signs, you should consult a doctor.


Recommended Specialists
For axillary swelling, you may want to consult the following specialists:
- Primary Care Physician: They can perform an initial evaluation and may refer you to a specialist if necessary.

- Breast Surgeon: Given your history of breast imaging, a breast surgeon can provide a more focused evaluation of any breast-related issues.

- Oncologist: If there is a concern for malignancy, an oncologist can provide specialized care and further diagnostic testing.


Conclusion
While your recent imaging studies have not indicated any immediate concerns, the significant change in the size of the axillary swelling should not be ignored. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers and advocate for your health. If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable with the current assessment, seeking a second opinion can also be beneficial. Remember, early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential health issues effectively.