Lumps in the Armpit: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Q: Lumps in the Armpit: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Xiaohua / 46 years old / Female Hello： 1. I am still troubled by intermittent pain. Could you please tell me what symptoms this might indicate? A： 1.1 As a human being, it is important to undergo regular cancer screenings according to age guidelines to detect a

There is a hard lump in the armpit?

Hello Doctor: Two years ago, I discovered a lump in my right armpit while taking a shower, and I also felt pain in my chest.
I went to a breast surgeon for an ultrasound, and the results were normal.
Earlier this year, I noticed that the pain in my right armpit and right breast was more intense than two years ago; sometimes it is sharp, and other times it is not painful at all.
I visited the breast surgeon again and underwent another ultrasound and a mammogram, but the results were still normal.
However, I am still troubled by this intermittent pain.
Could you please tell me what symptoms this might indicate? Which department should I consult for further examination? Thank you.

Xiao Hua, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/22

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Xiaohua / 46 years old / Female
Hello:
1.
I am still troubled by intermittent pain.
Could you please tell me what symptoms this might indicate?
A: 1.1 As a human being, it is important to undergo regular cancer screenings according to age guidelines to detect any issues early and initiate treatment.
If it turns out that you do not have cancer, that is great, but you will still need to be monitored over the long term.
1.2 As for the pain, it is really outside my area of expertise.

2.
Which specialty should I consult for further examination? Thank you.

A: I recommend that you have a follow-up appointment every six months, or at least once a year, and consult with a breast surgeon.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you good health.

Best regards,
Chen Sirong

Reply Date: 2021/04/22

More Info

When it comes to lumps in the armpit and accompanying breast pain, it’s essential to approach the situation with a thorough understanding of potential causes and the appropriate steps to take for further evaluation. Based on your description, you have already undergone ultrasound examinations and mammograms, which returned normal results. However, the persistence of pain and the presence of a lump warrant further investigation.

Firstly, it’s important to note that lumps in the armpit can arise from various conditions, ranging from benign to more serious issues. Common benign causes include swollen lymph nodes, which can occur due to infections, inflammation, or even benign tumors. In some cases, hormonal changes, particularly in women, can lead to breast tenderness and pain, which might also be felt in the surrounding areas, including the armpit.

Given that you have experienced an increase in pain intensity and frequency over the past two years, it is crucial to consider a few factors. The pain you describe as "sharp" or "intermittent" could be indicative of several conditions, including musculoskeletal issues, nerve-related pain, or even referred pain from other areas. For instance, conditions such as costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone) or thoracic outlet syndrome (compression of nerves or blood vessels in the neck and shoulder area) could manifest as pain in the chest and armpit.

Since your previous imaging studies have not revealed any abnormalities, it may be beneficial to consult with a specialist who can provide a more comprehensive evaluation. Here are a few recommendations for further action:
1. Consult a General Surgeon or Breast Specialist: Since you have already seen a breast surgeon, consider seeking a second opinion from another breast specialist or a general surgeon who has experience with breast and axillary conditions. They may recommend additional imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, which can provide more detailed information about soft tissue structures.

2. Visit a Pain Management Specialist: If the pain persists and is affecting your quality of life, a pain management specialist can help identify the source of your pain and provide treatment options, which may include physical therapy, medications, or other interventions.

3. Consider a Rheumatologist: If there is a suspicion of an inflammatory or autoimmune condition contributing to your symptoms, a rheumatologist can evaluate you for conditions such as fibromyalgia or other systemic diseases that could cause widespread pain.

4. Follow-Up with Your Primary Care Physician: Regular follow-ups with your primary care physician can help monitor your symptoms and coordinate care among specialists. They can also perform a thorough physical examination and review your medical history to identify any other potential causes of your symptoms.

In summary, while the initial imaging results are reassuring, the persistence of your symptoms suggests that further evaluation is warranted. It’s essential to advocate for your health and seek additional opinions or tests if you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing any potential health issues effectively.

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