Armpit Lump
Alternate Names : Axillary Abscess, Axillary Lymphadenopathy, Axillary Lymphs Enlarged, Localized Lymphadenopathy - Armpit, Lump in the Armpit, Lymph Nodes Enlarged-Axillary
Definition Enlargement of one or more lymph nodes in the armpit(s).
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Overview & 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. Subcutaneous abscesses 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.
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