What Does A Lump In The Armpit Indicate?

Posted on Mon, 30 Oct 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 Answered on

Fri, 1 Dec 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : I noticed a lump in my armpit today. When I touch it, it feels sore. I feel something like a hard or swollen vein going down from my armpit to my arm about an inch. I have no idea what this is or if I should see a doctor.

Answered by Dr. Dr Manjunath Metri (42 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Have listed two major causes of such problems..

Detailed Answer:
Hi, welcome to HealthcareMagic..
I thank you for posting your query here and I am definitely going to help you out..

I read your question completely and have understood it well enough..

Please note..

1. This is most commonly seen problem in women..

2. I can think of two major causes for such a problem..

A. Folliculitis, which is inflammation of the hair follicle in the arm pit.
This needs
Antibiotics
Clean up the area
Keep it dry

B. It can also be something called as Hidradenitis suppurativa.
Even this condition leads to such symptoms.
Again, this is inflammation.
Needs same treatment.

3. Very rarely, those could be enlarged lymph nodes.

4. If there is formation of pus then, drainage is indicated..

Hope this helps..
In case you need further assistance, please contact me back..
Or, you can close the question and rate.
Take care..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj