Armpit Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Worry - Oncology

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Understanding armpit lumps can be concerning, especially when they present with symptoms such as pain, swelling, and changes in the skin. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced recurrent lumps in your armpits, which have varied in size and have caused discomfort. Let's break down the potential causes, symptoms, and when you should seek medical attention.


Causes of Armpit Lumps
1. Lymphadenopathy: The lymph nodes in the armpit can become swollen due to infections, inflammation, or malignancies. Common infections include bacterial or viral infections, such as those caused by a cold or flu, or localized infections like abscesses.

2. Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that can form in response to infection. The fact that one of your lumps burst and drained pus suggests that it may have been an abscess. Abscesses can be painful and may require drainage and antibiotics.

3. Cysts: Sebaceous cysts are non-cancerous lumps filled with fluid or semi-solid material. They can occur anywhere on the body, including the armpits, and may become inflamed or infected.

4. Lipomas: These are benign tumors made of fatty tissue. They are usually soft, movable, and painless, but can sometimes cause discomfort if they press on nearby structures.

5. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa can cause painful lumps in the armpits due to blocked sweat glands. This condition often leads to recurrent abscesses and scarring.

6. Malignancies: While less common, lumps in the armpit can be a sign of cancer, such as lymphoma or breast cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes. However, this is typically accompanied by other symptoms.


Symptoms to Monitor
- Pain: If the lumps are painful, this may indicate an infection or inflammation.

- Fever: A systemic response such as fever can suggest an infection.

- Changes in Size: Rapid growth or changes in the characteristics of the lumps should be evaluated.

- Skin Changes: Redness, warmth, or drainage from the lumps can indicate infection.

- Duration: Lumps that persist for more than a few weeks or recur frequently should be assessed by a healthcare professional.


When to Seek Medical Attention
You should consider seeking medical attention if:
- The lumps persist or recur frequently.

- You experience significant pain or discomfort.

- There are signs of infection, such as fever, redness, or drainage.

- You notice any changes in your overall health, such as unexplained weight loss or fatigue.

- You have concerns about the possibility of cancer, especially if there is a family history of malignancies.


Conclusion
While many causes of armpit lumps are benign and related to infections or cysts, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Given your history of recurrent lumps and the associated symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may perform a physical examination, order imaging studies, or conduct laboratory tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate discomfort and address any potential health concerns effectively.