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Armpit Lumps - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

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An armpit lump is a swelling or a bump under the arm that can have many causes. The article below details the same.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

Published At November 23, 2022
Reviewed AtFebruary 15, 2024

What Is an Armpit Lump?

An armpit lump refers to swelling or bumps in the armpit that can have many causes, including infections, swollen lymph nodes, cysts, and chronic diseases. Armpit lumps can affect men and women of all ages and feel as small as a pea or as large as a golf ball. In rare cases, an armpit lump can signify cancer, especially in females an armpit lump may indicate breast cancer. Usually, armpit lumps are due to irritation, blockages, or injuries affecting hair follicles, lymph nodes, muscles, and skin. In most cases, the cause is not serious, and the lump goes on its own.

What Causes Small Lumps Under the Armpits?

Lumps in the armpit can develop due to various reasons.

1. Swollen lymph nodes are among the most common causes of armpit lumps. Lymph nodes may become enlarged due to the following reasons:

  • Infection in the arm or breast.

  • Infections, such as mononucleosis (a viral contagious disease that results in pharyngitis, fever, and enlarged lymph nodes), AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), or herpes (viral infection that results in painful blisters).

  • Cancers, like lymphomas (cancer originating in the lymphatic system cells) or breast cancer.

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (a chronic autoimmune condition that can affect multiple organ systems).

2. Armpit cysts or abscesses under the skin can also cause large lumps. These usually result from trauma or irritation, such as shaving, ingrown hair, or antiperspirants. Painful lumps under the armpit after shaving are commonly seen in teenagers when they just begin to shave.

3. Other causes of lumps in the armpit may include cat scratch disease, lipomas (harmless fatty growths), rashes, skin tags, and certain medicines or vaccinations.

4. Allergic reactions to soap, deodorants, or other substances can also result in an armpit lump.

What Are the Reasons for Armpit Lumps in Women?

Armpit lumps can occur in men or women of all ages. Usually, the lump in the armpit is an indication of breast cancer. Women should examine their breasts each month to rule out the presence of breast cancer. Another cause of armpit lump in women may occur due to hidradenitis suppurativa.

What Does an Armpit Lump Look Like?

An armpit lump may feel soft, hard, or unusually warm. Armpit lumps can be small (pea size) or relatively large (like a golf ball). The lump in the armpit can move about or can be immobile. The lump may appear underneath the skin or be hanging off the skin.

What Are the Other Symptoms Associated With Armpit Lumps?

The following symptoms can occur with armpit lumps due to infections:

  • Fever.

  • Night sweats.

  • Pain, swelling, or redness in the affected area.

  • The lump can contain pus.

  • The lump may get larger when being physically active and shrink at rest.

  • The lump may move a little when pressed.

How Are Armpit Lumps Diagnosed?

The health care professional diagnoses on a thorough physical examination of the armpit lump. The doctor may ask certain questions about any changes in the lump and whether there is pain. The doctor often palpates the lumps to determine their consistency and texture. Based on the physical examination, the doctor may order further diagnostic tests to rule out infection, allergic reaction, or cancerous changes:

  • Complete blood count (CBC) to measure the number of platelets, RBC (red blood cells), and WBC (white blood cells) in the blood.

  • A breast X-ray (mammogram) may allow the doctor to see the lump better.

  • MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) or computed tomography (CT) scan imaging.

  • A biopsy can require a small piece of tissue or the entire lump to be removed for testing.

  • Allergy testing.

  • Fluid culture from the lump to analyze for infection.

How to Get Rid of Swollen Lump Under Armpit?

Armpit lumps usually go away on their own without treatment. Watchful waiting, instead of therapy, is the best option for lumps likely to disappear independently. If treatment is desired, treatment options may include:

  • Antibiotics may be required to fight infection. Lumps unresponsive to antibiotics may require intravenous (IV) antibiotics.

  • Over-the-counter pain relief medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) may alleviate discomfort if the lump is painful or the affected area is swollen.

  • Warm compresses or heat packs.

  • Removing the lump may be required if lipomas, cysts, or other skin problems cause it.

  • Lumps from allergic reactions clear up once the trigger is removed.

  • If the armpit lumps are cancerous, the doctor can refer them to a specialist for further treatment.

What Are the Complications of an Armpit Lump?

The possible complications of an armpit lump may include the following:

  • Pain and discomfort.

  • Limited mobility of the affected arm can lead to difficulties performing everyday tasks.

  • Fever due to bacterial and viral infections.

  • Severe bacterial infections can result in abscess formation.

When to See a Doctor?

One should contact a healthcare provider if the armpit lump:

  • Does not go away after two weeks.

  • Feels hard and severely painful.

  • Gradually enlarged.

  • Returns after being removed.

  • Accompanied by a fever, night sweats, or other infection.

  • Unexplained weight loss and fever with a persisting lump.

  • Causes new symptoms like being tender to the touch.

  • An armpit lump in a woman may signify breast cancer, which should be checked by a medical professional immediately.

If a person experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above or has any unexplained lump in the armpit, see a doctor who can help rule out other serious conditions as soon as possible.

What Is the Outlook for People With Armpit Lumps?

Most armpit lumps are harmless and go away within a few weeks. The prognosis for an armpit lump typically depends on its cause. For instance, an armpit lump from a viral infection will likely go away independently. However, the outlook for an armpit lump resulting from cancer depends on several factors, such as cancer staging and whether the tumors have spread to different body parts. Receiving early diagnosis and prompt treatment may increase the chances of complete recovery.

Conclusion:

It can be concerning and annoying to find a lump in the armpit. But most of these lumps are harmless and usually go away independently. Having an armpit lump can indicate an infection that may need antibiotics. Removing a lump may be necessary due to a skin issue. On rare occasions, an armpit lump can be a sign of cancer. If a person is worried about a lump, the best thing to do is see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. Early detection and prompt treatment may increase the chances of completely recovering armpit lumps.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

When Is a Lump in Armpit a Problem?

Armpit lumps are frequently an indication of infection and may need antibiotic treatment. Some lumps need to be removed because they are caused by skin problems. An armpit lump may occasionally be an indication of malignancy. The best course of action if one has concerns about a lump, is to speak with a healthcare professional.

2.

What Feels Like a Cancerous Armpit Lump?

These lumps are frequently uncomfortable, immobile, and hard to the touch. However, having one is not usually a sign of malignancy. In order to determine a diagnosis, a thorough assessment usually includes imaging studies and a probable biopsy.

3.

What Lumps in the Armpit Are Normal?

Both men and women can develop armpit lumps for a variety of conditions, such as infections, skin irritants, and chronic illnesses. They can range in size from a pea to a golf ball. Usually, armpit lumps disappear on their own. They can occasionally be an indication of malignancy.

4.

Does a Lump in the Armpit Lead to Cancer?

An armpit lump may occasionally be an indication of malignancy. They are most frequently brought on by irritation, obstructions, or wounds to hair follicles or lymph glands.

5.

How Long Do the Lumps in Armpit Last?

It might take a few weeks, but most armpit lumps disappear on their own. A new armpit lump may appear if one has another illness, get vaccinated, or encounter a skin condition. However, most bumps are not harmful.

6.

How Frequently Armpit Lumps Occur?

Armpit lumps are fairly frequent and are often brought on by an enlarged lymph node or gland under the armpit. There are several different reasons for armpit lumps, some of which may need to be treated. Fortunately, depending on what caused the lumps to develop beneath the arm, there are several therapies available.

7.

What Percentage of Armpit Lumps Become Cancerous?

An unexplained lump that is not immediately attributed to disease or injury has around a 4 percent probability of being malignant if individuals are over 40 and about a 0.4 percent chance of malignancy if individuals are under 40, according to a report published in the American Family Physician.

8.

What Signs Point to Cancerous Lumps?

- The lump enlarges. 
- The lump hurts, is hot, or is red. 
- The lump is solid and immobile. 
- The lump stays for more than two weeks. 
- A lump returns after being removed. 
- If there is a presence of breast or testicular lump. 
- Individuals have persistent swelling in the armpit, groin, or side of their neck.

9.

Do Cancerous Lumps Grow in Armpits?

A woman's armpit lump should be evaluated by a doctor soon since it might be an indication of breast cancer. If one gets an unexplained armpit lump, get in touch with the doctor.

10.

Can a Shaved Armpit Cause a Lump?

Large, uncomfortable lumps in the armpit can also be caused by cysts or abscesses under the skin. These might result from using antiperspirants or shaving (not deodorants). This most frequently occurs in teenagers who are learning to shave.

11.

What Can One Do About a Lump in the Armpit?

- One could require antibiotics if they have an illness. 
- If the lump hurts or the region surrounding it is inflamed, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and over-the-counter painkillers can reduce the discomfort. 
- If the bulge is caused by lipomas, cysts, or other skin conditions, removal may be required.

12.

Which Type of Cancer Develops in the Armpit?

A cancer of the lymphatic system, which is a component of the body's defense against infection, is lymphoma. It is more common in armpit. Hundreds of these nodes are grouped together throughout the lymphatic system, such as in the armpits, neck, groin, and vicinity of the knee. Lymphatic vessels form a network that connects the nodes. 

13.

How Can Armpit Cancer Be Checked?

These lumps are frequently uncomfortable, immobile, and hard to the touch. However, having one is not usually a sign of malignancy. To determine a diagnosis, a thorough assessment usually includes imaging studies and a probable biopsy.
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Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar
Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

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