Armpit lump

Considerations:
Lumps in the armpit (axilla) may arise from various causes. Cysts and superficial infections in the skin of the armpit may follow shaving or use of antiperspirants (as compared to deodorants ). This occurs most frequently in adolescents just beginning to shave. Subcutaneous abscesses may also produce large painful lumps in the axilla.

Lumps may be produced by enlargement of the lymph nodes secondary to bacterial infections, viral infections, antigenic stimulation (as from vaccinations ), and malignancy . A breast self-examination should always include the armpit because breast cancer can enlarge the armpit lymph nodes even when the breast itself seems perfectly normal.

Lymph nodes are filters that can catch malignant tumor cells or infectious organisms. When they do, lymph nodes increase in size and are easily felt.

Common Causes:

Note: There may be other causes of an armpit lump. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as exact location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for an armpit lump, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Home Care:
Check with your health care provider to determine the nature of the lump.

For a lump in the armpit caused by an infected, painful gland, follow the instructions about the proper treatment for the underlying infection.

A lump in the armpit caused by a generalized viral infection will eventually disappear without therapy. A lump in the armpit caused by an allergic reaction will go away after the provoking substance is removed. No treatment is necessary for a lump in the armpit caused by normal breast tissue, and usually no treatment is necessary for a cyst .

A lump in the armpit caused by a lipoma (fatty growth) is harmless, unless it grows so large that it causes discomfort.

For a lump in the armpit caused by a malignancy , follow the appropriate cancer treatment recommended by a doctor.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:

  • there is any unexplained armpit lump(s). Do not try to diagnose lumps without professional help.



What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting an armpit lump in detail may include:

  • time pattern
    • When did you first notice the lump?
    • Is it getting better, worse, or staying the same?

  • aggravating factors
    • Are you breast feeding?
    • Have you noticed any factors that make it worse?

  • other
    • What other symptoms are also present?
    • Is the lump painful?

The physical examination may include palpation (gently pressing the nodes) of the lymph system .

Testing depends on what is found during the physical examination. Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to an armpit lump to your personal medical record.


This illustration shows an anatomical cross-section, both side and front views, of the female breast.



A breast self examination should be performed monthly by all adult women. Early detection of breast cancer results in a higher cure rate and survival rate. Increased awareness, routine breast exams, and regular mammograms allow for earlier detection of breast cancer. Increased longevity is just now beginning to show as survival statistics are being compiled.



The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. It is an important part of the immune system. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Common areas where lymph nodes can be easily felt, especially if they are enlarged, are: the groin, armpits (axilla), above the clavicle (supraclavicular), in the neck (cervical), and the back of the head just above hairline (occipital).



This picture shows an extreme case of breast cancer that involves the skin. The risk of breast cancer increases rapidly over the age of 30, to the extent that 1 out of every 8 or 9 American women will experience breast cancer at some point in their lives.