The lymph nodes under your arm are why many people, especially women, get nervous when they find an axillary mass. Masses can be caused by bacterial, viral infections, allergies, harmless tissue or fat growth, and cancer growth. The doctor will perform a physical examination or may take a sample from a biopsy to determine the cause of the mass.
Underarm mass is usually the enlargement of at least one of the lymph nodes under your arm. Small lymph nodes are oval glands that are located all over the body and play an important role in your immune system.
Most axillary masses are harmless and are usually the result of abnormal tissue growth. However, axillary masses can be associated with a more serious underlying health problem. Any unusual mass should be carefully examined by a physician.
The most common causes of axillary mass are:
- Bacterial or viral infections.
- Growth of harmless adipose tissue (lipomas).
- Allergic reactions.
- Adverse reactions to vaccination.
- Fungal infections.
- Non-cancerous fibrous tissue growth (fibroadenoma).
- Breast cancer response.
- Lymphatic system cancer (lymphoma).
- Blood cancer in the bone marrow (leukemia).
- Lupus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and limbs.
Underarm mass in men and women can occur at any age. However, an underarm mass may indicate breast cancer. Women should have monthly breast exams to report any mass to a doctor.
Note that the breasts undergo hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle and may tend to be uneven during this time. This is perfectly normal, so for the most accurate results, have your breasts examined about one to three days after the end. Do the course.
Diagnosis of axillary mass
Physical examination is the first step in diagnosing axillary mass. Touch or massage is used to determine the compatibility of the mass tissue. This method is done exclusively by hand.
In some cases, a clinical examination of the mass may not be harmful. For example, benign masses, such as lipomas, do not need additional treatment if the mass is annoying. However, a doctor can recommend treatment options to remove it. Slowly
Based on the results of the physical exam, your doctor may order further tests to rule out infection, allergic reactions, or cancerous changes. Your doctor may order a combination of the following diagnostic tests:
Complete blood count: To measure the number of red and white blood cells in your system. Chest or breast x-ray (mammogram): This is an imaging test that will allow your doctor to see the mass better.
Biopsy (removal of a small piece of mass tissue for testing)
– Allergy test
Method of treating axillary mass
Your doctor will recommend a course of treatment that depends on the underlying cause of the mass. Bacterial infections can be treated with oral antibiotics. After a few days, the axillary mass should begin to disappear.
If your lump is associated with allergies, it should subside when starting medication and learning to avoid allergens.
In most cases, axillary mass does not require any treatment, just a simple observation. You can use home remedies such as hot compresses and over-the-counter painkillers.
Masses that do not need treatment are:
- Lipoma.
- Viral infection
- Fibroadenoma (non-cancerous breast masses)
If your armpit is cancerous, your doctor may refer you to a specialist for further care. Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, and it may be a combination of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
Finally the axillary mass
The prognosis of an axillary mass depends on the cause. For example, a mass caused by a viral infection eventually disappears on its own. However, the lipoma, being harmless, is permanent.
The prospect of a cancerous axillary mass depends on a variety of factors, including the stage of the cancer and whether the tumor has spread to other parts of the body. The best chance of recovery is early diagnosis.
Even if you do not think the mass is harmful, it is best to contact your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
