Fibromas: Armpit Swelling and Pain Concerns - Surgery

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Fibroma with swelling and pain in the axilla?


Doctor, I discovered a 1.6 cm fibroma in my left breast during a check-up on December 31.
Since then, I have noticed that a certain area in both of my armpits has become swollen and painful when pressed.
I felt a hard lump a few months ago, but the actual examination was in December.
In middle school, I experienced swelling and pain in my armpits before my menstrual period, but it would go away after a while.
However, the swelling this time has lasted much longer than before, and I am very worried because I read online that it could be breast cancer.
Could you please provide me with a response? I am very concerned.

Ouou, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/01/24

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery


Dear Dr.
Hsu Kai-Hsi of the Tainan Hospital, Department of Surgery, Executive Yuan Health Department,
If the tumor in your left breast has been examined by a physician and diagnosed as a fibroma, it would not be breast cancer.
If you are very concerned, it is recommended that you follow up with the surgical outpatient clinic for further examination.

Wishing you good health and safety!
Sincerely,
Department of Surgery, Tainan Hospital, Executive Yuan Health Department

Reply Date: 2010/01/24

More Info


It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms related to your left breast fibroma and the swelling and pain in your armpits. It's completely understandable to feel anxious about these changes, especially with the information available online that can sometimes be alarming. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity.

First, it's important to understand what a fibroma is. Fibromas are benign (non-cancerous) tumors made up of fibrous or connective tissue. They can occur in various parts of the body, including the breast. The presence of a fibroma in your breast does not necessarily indicate cancer, especially if it has been evaluated by a healthcare professional and deemed benign. However, any changes in the breast or surrounding areas should be monitored closely.

Regarding the swelling and pain in your armpits, there are several potential explanations. Swelling in the armpit area can be due to lymph nodes reacting to various stimuli, including infections, inflammation, or even benign conditions like cysts or lipomas. Since you mentioned that you have experienced similar swelling before, particularly related to your menstrual cycle, it could be related to hormonal changes. Hormonal fluctuations can cause breast and lymph node tissue to swell and become tender, especially in the days leading up to menstruation.

However, given that this swelling has persisted longer than previous episodes and is accompanied by pain, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional. While the likelihood of this being related to breast cancer is low, especially if your fibroma was previously assessed as benign, it is crucial to rule out any other potential issues.
Here are some steps you should consider taking:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a specialist, such as a breast surgeon or an oncologist. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or mammogram, to assess the swelling in your armpit and the fibroma in your breast.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as the size of the swelling, any new lumps, changes in pain levels, or any other unusual signs. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

3. Discuss Your Concerns: Be open about your worries regarding breast cancer. Your healthcare provider can address these concerns, explain the likelihood of various conditions, and guide you through the necessary evaluations.

4. Consider Hormonal Factors: Since you mentioned a history of swelling related to your menstrual cycle, discuss this with your doctor. They may consider hormonal evaluations or suggest treatments to manage symptoms related to hormonal fluctuations.

5. Follow-Up: If your healthcare provider recommends further testing or monitoring, be sure to follow through. Regular check-ups can help ensure that any changes are caught early.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they do not automatically indicate breast cancer. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate guidance based on your specific situation. Early intervention and monitoring are key to addressing any health concerns effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a positive step towards understanding and managing your health.

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