HomeAnswersRadiologylymph node enlargementWhat does a lump under my armpit mean?

How long will it take for the armpit lump to subside?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Chithranjali Ravichandran

Published At August 18, 2021
Reviewed AtJanuary 8, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a lump in my left armpit, and it appeared six weeks ago and did not change physically. I have visited private hospitals and NHS for it. Each one gave me a different diagnosis. It was said to be a fat tissue (lipoma) by one, while the other said it is a swollen lymph node.

I have attached the images from the ultrasound.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Varun Chaudhry

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen the images (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). The lesion in focus is slightly hypoechoic (dark), so it is likely to represent a lymph node. Since I have not directly performed the USG (Ultrasonography) scan, I can only comment upon the limited images.

This lesion is less likely to be a lipoma which is usually fatty and should be hyperechoic (bright) on USG.

There are many reasons for a lymph node enlargement, such as infection. It could also be a reflection of breast lesions.

If the swelling persists, I would suggest to get this further evaluated clinically. Clinical evaluation of the breast is advised to rule out sinister.

The Probable causes

There are many causes of enlarged nodes like infection. It may also be secondary to breast lesions.

Investigations to be done

Clinical evaluation of the breasts to rule out sinister lesions.

Regarding follow up

Do let me know if you have further queries.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your response.

I have been to the NHS breast clinic. They also said it is a slightly enlarged lymph node, but nothing to worry about it.

I had a breast examination by a consultant who said she could not feel anything in the breasts; the lymph node did not show anything related to sinister.

Do you think that is fine? Or should I look further again?

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Varun Chaudhry

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

That is reassuring. If the consultant has evaluated you, it should be enough. You only need to consult the doctor again if the size keeps increasing or it becomes painful.

Regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

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Dr. Varun Chaudhry

Radiodiagnosis

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