Axillary Tumors: Ultrasound Diagnosis During Pregnancy - Oncology

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When it comes to the diagnosis of axillary tumors during pregnancy, particularly in your situation where you've discovered a movable lump in your right axilla at 27 weeks of pregnancy, it is understandable to have concerns about the nature of this lump and the implications for your health and that of your baby.
Ultrasound is a valuable tool in the evaluation of breast and axillary masses. It can provide critical information regarding the characteristics of a lump, such as its size, shape, and whether it appears solid or cystic. In many cases, experienced radiologists can assess the likelihood of a mass being benign or malignant based on these features. For instance, benign tumors often have well-defined borders and a homogeneous internal structure, while malignant tumors may show irregular borders, heterogeneous echogenicity, and increased vascularity. However, it is important to note that ultrasound alone cannot definitively diagnose a tumor as benign or malignant.
In your case, the fact that the lump is movable and described as being similar in size to a small potato may suggest that it could be a benign condition, such as a lipoma or an enlarged lymph node. However, the only way to obtain a definitive diagnosis is through a biopsy, which involves taking a sample of the tissue for pathological examination. Your family doctor’s decision to proceed with an ultrasound first is likely based on the need to gather more information before considering more invasive procedures like a biopsy, especially given your pregnancy.

Regarding the timing of treatment, it is generally advisable to avoid unnecessary interventions during pregnancy unless there is a significant risk to the mother or fetus. If the ultrasound suggests that the lump is benign and there are no concerning features, your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring it until after delivery. However, if there are any red flags or if the lump changes in size or characteristics, further evaluation may be warranted sooner.

It is also important to communicate your concerns with your healthcare provider. If you feel that your situation requires more urgent attention, you have the right to seek a second opinion or request further testing. The healthcare system can sometimes be slow, but advocating for your health is crucial, especially given your family history of breast cancer.

In summary, while ultrasound is a useful first step in evaluating axillary tumors during pregnancy, it is not definitive for diagnosing malignancy. A biopsy may be necessary for a conclusive diagnosis, and the timing of any treatment can often be deferred until after delivery if the lump appears benign. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider about your concerns and the best course of action for your health and your baby’s well-being.