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Female Breast
Female Breast
Lymphatic system
Lymphatic system
Swollen lymph nodes under arm
Swollen lymph nodes under arm

Armpit lump
Definition:
Enlargement of one or more lymph nodes in the armpit(s).

Alternative Names:
Lump in the armpit; Localized lymphadenopathy - armpit; Axillary lymphadenopathy; Axillary lymphs enlarged; Lymph nodes enlarged-axillary; Axillary abscess

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. Subcutaneousabscesses 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:
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.
Review Date: 12/5/2001
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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