Armpit lump

Alternative names:

axillary lymphadenopathy; axillary lymphs enlarged; localized lymphadenopathy-armpit; lump in the armpit; lymph nodes enlarged-axillary

Definition:

Enlargement of one or more lymph nodes in the armpit(s).

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:

• bacterial
  • cat scratch disease
  • ascending lymphangitis
  • lymphadenitis, lymphangitis
  • localized infection, possibly somewhere in the arm draining into the glands of the armpit, lumps caused by infection are often painful (see breast infection)

• viral
  • infectious mononucleosis
  • chickenpox
  • herpes zoster (shingles)
  • HIV disease (AIDS)

• malignant
  • Hodgkin's disease
  • non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
  • leukemia

• fungal
  • sporotrichosis

• antigenic
  • smallpox vaccination
  • typhoid vaccine
  • measles, mumps, rubella vaccine (rare)
  • allergic reaction possibly caused by sulfa drugs, iodine, or penicillin

• other
  • lipomas (harmless fatty growths)
  • benign cyst
  • normal breast tissue (breast tissue extends into the armpit area)

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.