Small Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Concerns

Axillary lump

Hello doctor, I have a small hard lump about 0.2 cm under my right armpit that has been there for a while.
It is not visible on the surface, and it is not painful or inflamed.
What could it possibly be?

JN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/13

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

JN, a 21-year-old female, has had a small hard lump approximately 0.2 cm in size under her right armpit for some time.
A: If it has not grown during this period, benign conditions should be the primary consideration, as it is less likely to be malignant.
However, to determine the specific types of benign conditions, a physician's examination is necessary for further assessment.
Taoyuan Medical Center, Dr.
Chen Sih-Jung.

Reply Date: 2015/10/13

More Info

When it comes to small lumps under the armpit, there are several potential causes that could explain their presence. Given that you have described a small, hard lump measuring approximately 0.2 cm that is not painful and has been present for some time, it is important to consider various possibilities.

1. Lymph Nodes: One of the most common reasons for a lump in the armpit area is an enlarged lymph node. Lymph nodes can become swollen due to infections, inflammation, or other medical conditions. Infections, such as a cold or flu, can cause lymph nodes to swell as they work to filter out pathogens. If the lump is indeed a lymph node, it may not be painful, especially if it is not currently reacting to an infection.

2. Lipomas: Another possibility is a lipoma, which is a benign tumor made up of fatty tissue. Lipomas are usually soft, movable, and painless. They can occur anywhere in the body, including the armpit area, and are generally harmless.

3. Cysts: Sebaceous cysts can also form under the skin and may present as small lumps. These cysts are typically filled with a fatty substance and can be painless. They may become inflamed or infected, leading to discomfort, but if yours is not causing any pain, it may simply be a benign cyst.

4. Fibromas: These are benign tumors made of fibrous or connective tissue. They can also appear as small lumps under the skin and are usually painless.

5. Other Conditions: While less common, other conditions such as infections (like abscesses), or even more serious issues like tumors (benign or malignant), could also present as lumps in the armpit area. However, the fact that your lump is small, hard, and painless is reassuring.

Recommendations
- Observation: If the lump is not causing any pain or discomfort and has not changed in size, it may be reasonable to monitor it for any changes over time. Keep an eye on it for any signs of growth, pain, or changes in texture.

- Consultation: If you notice any changes in the lump, such as an increase in size, pain, or if you develop other symptoms (like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss), it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies or a biopsy to determine the nature of the lump.

- Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it can be tempting to search for answers online, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. They can provide you with the best advice based on your medical history and current health status.

In conclusion, while a small, hard lump under the armpit can be concerning, many potential causes are benign. Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare professional if changes occur are the best approaches to ensure your health and peace of mind.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Painful Lumps in the Armpit: Causes and Concerns

Hello Dr. Chen: Three years ago, I accidentally discovered that I sometimes have small tumors (beneath the skin) in my armpit. They are round and small, and they hurt slightly when pressed. After a few days, they disappear without any issues. Recently, I feel like they have been ...

Dr. Chen Nengjin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Regarding your question, it may be accessory breast tissue, which is a normal phenomenon. To put your mind at ease, please consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist. Thank you.

Understanding Small Bumps Under Your Left Armpit: Causes and Concerns

There is a small bump under my left armpit that is flesh-colored, approximately 0.5 mm in length, and is not painful (it could possibly be a filiform wart, folliculitis, sebaceous gland inflammation, milia, or lymphadenopathy; I suspect it is milia). Since the dermatologist could...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
It is not possible to make a diagnosis based solely on a textual description; a personal examination by a physician is necessary. However, small lumps on the surface of the skin are generally benign and usually do not require excessive concern. Typically, surgical removal is not ...

Understanding Armpit Lumps: Tumors or Lymph Node Concerns?

This year, I suddenly discovered a small lump about 0.5 to 1 centimeter in size under my left armpit. It can only be felt when I stretch my arm or touch it, and it is not painful or itchy. It is movable, and I am unsure whether it is a tumor or related to the lymph nodes.

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be a benign subcutaneous nodule, such as a lipoma or lymph node. Observation is recommended.

Understanding Lumps Underarm: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Dr. Lee: I recently discovered a round lump under the skin in my armpit. It is visibly protruding, but I don't feel any pain when I press on it; instead, I ended up injuring the skin from squeezing it. Initially, I thought it was a pimple with pus inside that I couldn&...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! It is recommended to see a general surgeon for axillary lumps. The most common subcutaneous tumors are lipomas and sebaceous cysts, but there are more considerations in the axillary region, especially concerning the breast. Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!