Armpit Lumps: When to See a Specialist - Oncology

More Info

---

When you notice a lump in your armpit, it can be concerning, and it's important to understand what it might mean and when to seek medical attention. Armpit lumps can arise from various causes, including swollen lymph nodes, cysts, infections, or even more serious conditions like tumors. Here’s a comprehensive overview to help you understand the situation better.


Possible Causes of Armpit Lumps
1. Swollen Lymph Nodes: The armpit contains lymph nodes that can swell due to infections, inflammation, or other medical conditions. Common causes include viral infections (like the flu), bacterial infections (such as abscesses), or even localized skin infections.

2. Cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in various parts of the body, including the armpit. They are usually benign and may not require treatment unless they become painful or infected.

3. Lipomas: These are benign tumors made of fatty tissue. They are usually soft, movable, and painless. While they are not harmful, some individuals may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.

4. Infections: Conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa can cause painful lumps in the armpit area due to blocked sweat glands. This condition often requires medical treatment.

5. Malignant Conditions: Although less common, lumps in the armpit can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, such as lymphoma or breast cancer. This is particularly a concern if the lump is hard, fixed, or associated with other symptoms like weight loss, night sweats, or fever.


When to See a Specialist
You should consider seeing a healthcare provider if:
- The lump persists for more than two weeks without improvement.

- The lump increases in size or becomes painful.

- You experience other symptoms such as fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.

- You have a history of cancer or other significant health issues that could relate to the lump.


Which Specialist to See
For an armpit lump, the first point of contact is typically your primary care physician (PCP). They can perform an initial examination and determine the nature of the lump. Depending on their findings, they may refer you to a specialist, such as:
- Dermatologist: If the lump appears to be a skin-related issue, such as a cyst or infection.

- Oncologist: If there is a suspicion of cancer or if further evaluation of a lump is needed.

- Surgeon: If the lump requires surgical intervention or biopsy for diagnosis.


Diagnostic Tests
Your doctor may recommend several tests to determine the cause of the lump, including:
- Ultrasound: This imaging test can help differentiate between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts.

- CT or MRI scans: These may be used for a more detailed view if a more serious condition is suspected.

- Biopsy: If there is concern about cancer, a biopsy may be performed to analyze the tissue.


Conclusion
While many armpit lumps are benign and may resolve on their own, it’s essential to monitor any changes and seek medical advice if you have concerns. Early evaluation can help rule out serious conditions and provide peace of mind. If you notice a lump, don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary care physician for guidance on the next steps. Remember, it’s always better to be cautious when it comes to your health.