Painful Lump in Armpit: When to See a Specialist? - Oncology

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When dealing with a painful lump in the armpit, especially one that has persisted for over six months, it is important to approach the situation with caution and seek appropriate medical attention. Given your history of atopic dermatitis, which can lead to skin inflammation and possible secondary infections, it is crucial to differentiate between various potential causes of the lump.


When to See a Specialist
You should consider seeing a specialist if:
1. Persistent Symptoms: The lump has been present for more than six months and is associated with pain, which warrants further evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

2. Changes in Size or Characteristics: If the lump increases in size, changes in texture, or exhibits other concerning features (such as hardening or irregular borders), it is advisable to seek medical advice.

3. Associated Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or systemic symptoms, these could indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.

4. Recurrent Infections: Given your history of atopic dermatitis and the presence of pus during flare-ups, recurrent infections may necessitate evaluation by a specialist to manage both the skin condition and the lump effectively.


Which Specialist to See
For your specific case, the following specialists may be appropriate:
1. Dermatologist: Since you have a history of atopic dermatitis, a dermatologist can assess the skin condition and the lump. They can perform a thorough examination and may conduct a biopsy if necessary to determine the nature of the lump.

2. General Surgeon: If the lump appears to be a cyst or a lymph node that may need to be excised or drained, a general surgeon would be the appropriate specialist to consult.

3. Infectious Disease Specialist: If there is a concern about recurrent infections or if the lump is suspected to be an abscess, an infectious disease specialist may provide insights into appropriate management and treatment options.


Medical Considerations
The lump in your armpit could be due to several reasons, including:
- Lymphadenopathy: Enlarged lymph nodes can occur due to infections, inflammatory conditions, or malignancies. Given your history of skin inflammation, it is possible that the lymph nodes are reactive due to chronic skin issues.

- Sebaceous Cyst: These are common and can become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and pus formation.

- Abscess: If there is an infection, an abscess may form, which would require drainage and antibiotic treatment.

- Lipoma: A benign fatty tumor that is usually painless but can become uncomfortable if it presses on surrounding tissues.

- Malignancy: While less common, any persistent lump should be evaluated to rule out cancer, especially if there are concerning features.


Conclusion
In summary, given the duration and nature of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist first, as they can evaluate the skin condition and the lump comprehensively. If necessary, they can refer you to a general surgeon or other specialists based on their findings. Early evaluation is key to ensuring that any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively.