A lump in the armpit can be a concerning discovery, yet it is a common occurrence with various causes. Most armpit lumps are benign and not indicative of a serious health problem. Understanding their potential origins can help individuals respond appropriately.
Common Reasons for Armpit Lumps
A common cause of armpit lumps is swollen lymph nodes. These small, oval structures are part of the body’s immune system, filtering pathogens like bacteria and viruses. When the body fights an infection, such as the flu or a bacterial infection, these nodes enlarge as they work to filter out harmful cells. Swollen lymph nodes often feel movable and may be tender or painful. They can also swell due to injuries or autoimmune conditions.
Cysts are another common type of armpit lump. These fluid-filled sacs develop just under the skin. Epidermal or sebaceous cysts are usually harmless and may feel soft or firm. While often benign, cysts can sometimes become infected, leading to redness, pain, and soreness.
Lipomas are benign fatty growths that can appear in the armpit. These lumps are soft, movable, and usually painless. Lipomas tend to grow slowly over months or years and often do not require treatment unless they become bothersome. They can occur anywhere on the body where fat cells are present.
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition involving inflammation of hair follicles and sweat glands. It commonly leads to painful lumps, abscesses, and tunnels under the skin, especially in areas like the armpits where skin rubs together. These lumps can persist for weeks or months and may rupture, draining pus and sometimes blood. HS can also result in scarring and is not caused by poor hygiene.
Ingrown hairs and folliculitis are common causes of armpit lumps. An ingrown hair occurs when a hair strand grows back into the skin, often after shaving or waxing, leading to an inflamed bump. These bumps are typically small, tender, and may be red or itchy. Folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicle, can also cause small, painful lumps, sometimes appearing like pimples with pus.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many armpit lumps are harmless and resolve on their own, certain characteristics warrant medical evaluation. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if an armpit lump persists for more than one to two weeks, grows larger, or does not go away.
Medical attention is also recommended if the lump is accompanied by persistent pain, redness, or warmth, which could indicate infection or inflammation. Changes in the skin over the lump, such as dimpling, puckering, or unusual discoloration, are also signs to discuss with a doctor. Lumps that feel hard, are irregular in shape, or do not move easily under the skin should be evaluated promptly.
If the armpit lump is accompanied by other systemic symptoms, seek medical advice. These symptoms include unexplained fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or persistent fatigue. For individuals with a history of cancer, particularly breast cancer or lymphoma, any new armpit lump should be assessed without delay. Self-diagnosis is not recommended; a healthcare provider can determine the underlying cause and appropriate next steps.
Understanding Diagnosis and Management
When seeking medical attention for an armpit lump, the diagnostic process begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. The doctor will ask questions about when the lump was first noticed, any changes in its size or appearance, and associated symptoms like pain or fever. During the physical exam, the healthcare provider will feel the lump and surrounding area to assess its size, consistency, texture, and mobility.
Based on the physical examination, further diagnostic tests may be ordered to identify the cause. An ultrasound is often the first imaging test, as it is non-invasive and provides detailed tissue images, helping differentiate lump types. If breast tissue involvement is suspected, a mammogram may be recommended. Blood tests can help detect signs of infection or other systemic conditions. If the lump appears suspicious, a biopsy, which involves removing a small tissue sample for laboratory analysis, may be performed to establish a definitive diagnosis.
The management approach for an armpit lump depends on its underlying cause. For many benign lumps, such as lipomas or those caused by viral infections, active treatment may not be necessary, and simple observation may be recommended. If a bacterial infection is identified, antibiotics are prescribed to resolve the infection and reduce the lump. Cysts or abscesses that are painful or infected may require drainage or surgical removal.
In cases where a more serious condition, such as cancer, is diagnosed, the individual will be referred to a specialist. Treatment may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgical intervention. A precise diagnosis is essential for effective management and appropriate care.