Armpit Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice

Axillary lump

Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to respond.
Two days ago, while showering, I noticed a small hard lump in my armpit, possibly around 0.5 cm.
However, when I checked again yesterday, it felt like the lump had grown to about 2 cm.
It is not very painful when pressed, and I cannot squeeze anything out of it, but it feels deformed and is now somewhat rounded.
I do not have a cold.
Should I be concerned about this? It seems to have grown too quickly within a day, and I am quite worried.

A Ping, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/07

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

Common lumps that can be easily felt under the armpit are often sebaceous cysts, which are caused by the blockage of sebaceous gland ducts leading to accumulation.
This is similar to the formation of acne.
If there is an infection resulting in swelling and pain, it may be referred to colloquially as a pilar cyst or boil.
Rapid enlargement may indicate early-stage infection causing swelling, and it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly for a diagnosis (either at a general clinic or a hospital outpatient surgical department).
If the diagnosis aligns with my suspicion, early use of oral antibiotics may help prevent further deterioration.

Reply Date: 2020/08/07

More Info

When it comes to understanding armpit lumps, it’s important to recognize that while many lumps can be benign, there are certain characteristics and changes that warrant medical attention. Based on your description, you noticed a small hard lump in your armpit that has increased in size from approximately 0.5 cm to about 2 cm within a day. This rapid growth, along with the lump's firmness and shape change, raises some concerns that should be addressed.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand what could cause lumps in the armpit area. Common causes include:
1. Lymphadenopathy: The lymph nodes in the armpit can become enlarged due to infections, inflammation, or malignancies. Infections can be localized (like an infection in the arm or breast) or systemic (like viral infections).
2. Cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in various tissues, including the skin. They are usually benign but can become infected or inflamed.

3. Lipomas: These are benign tumors made of fat tissue. They are generally soft and movable under the skin.

4. Infections: Conditions like abscesses can cause painful lumps that may require drainage.

5. Malignancies: While less common, lumps can also be indicative of cancers, such as lymphoma or breast cancer, especially if they are hard, fixed, and associated with other symptoms.

Given that your lump has increased in size rapidly and has changed in shape, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Here are some specific reasons to consult a healthcare professional:
- Rapid Growth: Any lump that grows quickly, especially within a short time frame, should be evaluated to rule out serious conditions.

- Persistent Changes: If the lump changes in shape or consistency, this can indicate underlying issues that need to be investigated.

- Associated Symptoms: While you mentioned not having a fever or other symptoms, any new systemic symptoms (like weight loss, night sweats, or fatigue) should also prompt a visit to the doctor.

- Pain or Discomfort: Although you mentioned that the lump is not very painful, any discomfort or tenderness should be evaluated.

During your visit, the healthcare provider may perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the lump further. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to determine the nature of the lump.

In summary, while not all lumps are indicative of serious health issues, the rapid growth and change in your armpit lump are concerning enough to warrant a medical evaluation. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your body. Please schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms and receive appropriate care.

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