[21F] Concerned about a painful armpit lump

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, there are several possible causes for the lump in your armpit:

• Infection: An infection can cause swollen lymph nodes, which can appear as lumps. These are often painful and can be caused by a variety of conditions, such as a skin infection or an immune response to a virus or bacteria.

  • Treatment: If an infection is the cause, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to treat the underlying infection.

• Lipomas: These are benign (non-cancerous) fatty lumps that grow under the skin. They are usually painless, but can sometimes cause discomfort if they press on nerves or have a supply of blood vessels.

  • Treatment: Lipomas usually don't need treatment unless they're causing discomfort or you're unhappy with how they look. If necessary, they can be removed with surgery.

• Cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs that can form in various parts of the body, including the armpit. They can be painful, especially if they become infected.

  • Treatment: Small cysts may disappear without treatment. Larger or painful cysts might need to be drained or removed surgically.

• Cancer: While it's possible that a lump could be a sign of cancer (such as breast cancer or lymphoma), it's important to remember that there are many other, more common causes of lumps. It's also important to note that lumps caused by cancer are typically not painful.

  • Treatment: If cancer is the cause, treatment options can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.

What you can do

It's important to get any new lump checked out by a healthcare professional, especially if it's painful or doesn't go away after a couple of weeks. They can evaluate the lump and may order tests, such as a biopsy or an ultrasound, to determine the cause.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• The lump grows rapidly or changes in size, shape, or color
• You notice other lumps
• You experience other symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss, fever, or night sweats

Remember, I am an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.