a Tumor in the Left Armpit: Causes and Concerns

There is a tumor in the left armpit that releases pus when pressed. What could this condition be?

There is a tumor under the left armpit that releases pus when pressed.
What could this condition be?

Yaya, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/08

Dr. Wu Zongcheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Yaya,
The lump under your left armpit contains pus, primarily due to inflammation of the sebaceous glands, with duct obstruction leading to bacterial infection and abscess formation.
The treatment approach involves a small incision for drainage, followed by antibiotic therapy.
Other conditions may include accessory breast lymphadenopathy, tissue inflammation with pus formation, or other tumors, which would require a biopsy for diagnosis.
Wishing you good health and all the best from the Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health!

Reply Date: 2005/04/08

More Info

When it comes to a tumor or lump in the left armpit that produces pus when pressed, there are several potential causes to consider. The symptoms you describe suggest the possibility of an infection, such as an abscess, which is a localized collection of pus that can occur due to bacterial infection. This is often accompanied by redness, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area.
Abscesses can form in the armpit for various reasons, including:
1. Infection of Hair Follicles (Folliculitis): This is an infection of the hair follicles that can lead to the formation of small, painful lumps. If the infection worsens, it can develop into an abscess.

2. Lymphadenopathy: The lymph nodes in the armpit can become swollen due to infections in the body, such as a cold or flu, or due to localized infections in the arm or breast. If these lymph nodes become infected, they can also produce pus.

3. Skin Infections: Conditions such as cellulitis or other bacterial skin infections can lead to the formation of lumps that may drain pus.

4. Sebaceous Cysts: These are non-cancerous lumps that can occur when sebaceous glands become blocked. While they are usually not painful, they can become infected and produce pus.

5. Other Causes: Less commonly, tumors such as lipomas (benign fatty tumors) or even malignant tumors can occur in the armpit area. However, these typically do not produce pus unless they are infected.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to better understand the nature of the lump. If an abscess is confirmed, treatment may involve drainage of the pus and possibly antibiotics to treat the infection.

In terms of concerns regarding malignancy, while it is understandable to worry about the possibility of cancer, especially if there is a change in the size or characteristics of the lump, the presence of pus typically indicates an infectious process rather than a malignant one. However, any persistent lump, especially one that changes in size or causes discomfort, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

In summary, the most likely cause of a painful, pus-producing lump in the left armpit is an abscess due to infection. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure better health outcomes.

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