Lumps: Are Your Armpit Growths Fibromas? - Oncology

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Discovery of a mass?


Hello doctor, I have a small lump in my armpit that I noticed is not painful and the skin over the lump appears normal.
I previously had a lump in my breast that was surgically removed, which was a benign fibroadenoma.
Is this lump in my armpit also likely a fibroadenoma? Will it go away on its own?

Qi Qi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/16

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology


Qiqi / 17 years old / Female
1.
Is the lump under the armpit also a fibroma? Without excision and pathological examination, it is not possible to determine what type of tumor it is.

2.
Will it disappear on its own? It is not recommended to wait.

1.
Surgical excision is advised.

2.
Observation is recommended; if it continues to grow, changes color, becomes hard, or presents symptoms such as pain, seek medical attention at Taoyuan Hospital.
Dr.
Chen Sih-Rong.

Reply Date: 2015/10/16

More Info


Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the lump you found in your armpit. It’s understandable to be concerned about any new growths on your body, especially given your history of benign fibromas. Let's delve into your concerns.

Firstly, the lump you are describing could potentially be a fibroma, which is a benign tumor made up of fibrous or connective tissue. Fibromas are generally non-cancerous and can occur in various parts of the body, including the skin and subcutaneous tissues. They are often painless and may feel firm to the touch. However, without a physical examination and possibly imaging or biopsy, it is difficult to definitively diagnose the lump.

In terms of whether the lump will disappear on its own, it largely depends on the type of growth. Some benign lumps can indeed resolve spontaneously, while others may persist or even grow over time. If the lump is a fibroma, it may remain stable, but it is also possible for it to grow larger. In many cases, if a fibroma is not causing any symptoms or discomfort, treatment may not be necessary. However, if it changes in size, shape, or color, or if you experience any pain or discomfort, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.

Given your history of having a benign fibroma in the breast, it’s worth noting that while fibromas are generally benign, any new lump should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the characteristics of the lump and determine the best course of action. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

It’s also important to consider other potential causes for lumps in the armpit area, such as lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), cysts, or other benign tumors like lipomas (fatty tumors). Lymph nodes can become enlarged due to infections, inflammation, or other medical conditions, so it’s crucial to consider the context of your overall health.

In summary, while your lump could be a fibroma, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out other conditions and to determine the appropriate management. If it is indeed a benign fibroma, you may not need treatment unless it becomes bothersome. However, regular monitoring and follow-up are advisable to ensure that it remains stable.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. Wishing you the best of health!

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