Armpit lump
Alternative names:
axillary lymphadenopathy; axillary lymphs enlarged; localized lymphadenopathy-armpit; lump in the armpit; lymph nodes enlarged-axillary
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 health care provider if:
- there is any unexplained armpit lump(s). Do not try to diagnose lumps without professional help.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
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.
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