Lumps in the Armpit: What You Need to Know

Axillary lump

Hello, doctor.
I am 25 years old and discovered a lymph node in my neck when I was 16-17 years old.
I also had one in my groin at that time.
A biopsy of the neck lymph node showed normal results.
These lymph nodes have not changed for nearly 10 years.
However, in the past few days, I have felt lymph nodes in both armpits—two on one side and one on the other.
They are small and movable.
Two days ago, I visited a gynecologist for an examination, but the doctor said nothing was visible on the imaging.
The doctor suggested it might be a lipoma or connective tissue, which cannot be seen on the scan.
This has made me quite anxious.
Today, I sought a second opinion from another large gynecology clinic.
Initially, they also did not see anything but later confirmed that it should be lymph nodes.
I asked the doctor how big they were, and after some examination, they noted that the lumps were about 0.3 cm in size.
The doctor said they appeared to be normal lymph nodes.
I would like to ask if the likelihood of cancer is high in this case.
The doctor mentioned that as long as they do not increase in size, there is no need for concern.
However, I am still worried and wanted to get a different doctor's opinion, as I am unsure whether the lymph nodes in my armpits have been there for a while or if they have recently appeared.
Additionally, I would like to understand why the first clinic could not see anything and why the second clinic also did not immediately identify any hard lumps during the examination.
Thank you for your help.

Chu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/21

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology

The lymph nodes in the neck have undergone fine-needle aspiration and ultrasound imaging, which did not reveal any abnormalities.
Additionally, since they are very small (less than 1 cm), the likelihood of cancer is extremely low.
It is recommended to simply monitor the situation for any changes, such as gradual enlargement in the short term or any skin abnormalities.
If there are no changes, it is advised not to keep pressing on them and to temporarily leave them alone.
Possible causes include localized lymphadenopathy, benign subcutaneous nodules (such as calcifications, sebaceous cysts, fibromas, etc.).

Reply Date: 2022/07/21

More Info

Understanding lumps in the armpit can be a source of anxiety for many individuals, especially when they are uncertain about the nature of these lumps. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing some lymph nodes in your neck and groin for several years without any changes, which is a positive sign. The recent discovery of small lumps in both armpits, which your doctors have suggested might be lymph nodes, is something that warrants further understanding.

Firstly, it is important to note that lymph nodes can become palpable for various reasons, including infections, inflammation, or benign conditions. In your case, the fact that these lymph nodes have been stable and have not changed in size over the years is reassuring. Lymph nodes that are small, movable, and not associated with other symptoms (such as fever, weight loss, or night sweats) are often benign.
The doctors you consulted mentioned that the lumps could be fatty deposits or connective tissue, which are also common and typically harmless. Imaging studies, such as ultrasounds, may not always visualize small or deep-seated structures effectively, especially if they are not significantly enlarged or if they are located in areas with complex anatomy. This could explain why the first clinic could not identify anything, and the second clinic only noticed the lymph nodes after further examination.

Regarding your concern about the possibility of cancer, it is essential to understand that the likelihood of a cancer diagnosis based solely on the presence of small, stable lymph nodes is relatively low, especially given your age and the absence of other concerning symptoms. Cancerous lymph nodes tend to be larger, firm, and often fixed to surrounding tissues, which does not seem to be the case for you.

However, it is always wise to remain vigilant. If you notice any changes in the size, shape, or consistency of these lymph nodes, or if you develop new symptoms, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. Regular check-ups can help monitor any changes over time.

In summary, while the presence of lumps in the armpit can be concerning, your situation appears to be stable and benign based on the information provided. It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any ongoing concerns you may have. They can provide reassurance and help you determine if any further evaluation or monitoring is necessary. Remember, your health is paramount, and staying informed is a key part of managing your well-being.

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