What are the causes of recurring lumps under the armpit?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mom has a lump under her armpit. The lump disappears, but then another one grows in its place. She has had more than five lumps that grow, release pus, disappear, and then grow back again. She initially thought it was due to perfume, but we are now concerned since she has stopped using any perfumes. This has been happening for the past five months.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I can offer some general information that may be helpful. It is important for your mom to consult with a general physician to get a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The recurring lump under her armpit that releases pus could be a sign of an infection or an abscess. It is possible that the initial infection is not fully resolving, leading to the recurrence of the lump. Other potential causes could include an inflamed lymph node or a cyst.

Here are a few steps your mom can take:

1. Consult a healthcare professional: Encourage your mom to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional, such as a primary care physician or a dermatologist. They will be able to examine the lump, ask relevant questions about her symptoms, and recommend appropriate tests or treatments.

2. Keep the area clean: In the meantime, she can gently clean the area with mild soap and warm water. Avoid squeezing or attempting to drain the lump on her own, as this can lead to further complications or infection.

3. Avoid irritants: If your mom suspects that certain products, such as perfumes, may be causing the issue, it is wise for her to avoid using them until she receives a proper diagnosis.

4. Monitor symptoms: Encourage your mom to keep track of any changes in the lump, such as size, color, or pain. This information can be helpful for the healthcare professional during the evaluation.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.