Lymph Node or Not?

[Newhall]

I am 45 years old, 3 breast biopsies and sister died of breast cancer.

On April, 8 2005 I had a sonogram done.The following is the diagnosis. The patient was referred to us for a mass in the right side.  She indicated a mass which is located in the axillary line far from the breast tissue and this appears to be a hypoechoic mass located under the skin.  This is at least 12cm lateral from the nipple beyond the breast parenchyma in the 10 o'clock axis. The mass measures 0.67x0.44cm in diameter. This is mostly hypoechoic with some small echogenic centers that could represent a lymph node. The rest of the breast parenchyma shows no abnormality.
Now, my question is. Since then I have not seen a doctor again. However, I have noticed that this small lump has been getting bigger slowly with no pain and it does not move. A couple of days ago (4) I noticed the same area getting red and inflamed and it also hurts. The lump has gotten really big, burning, sensative when touched and pain runs to breast and underarm as well as arm. Can't tell the exact measurement but looks like the size of a nickel and is it seems as if it is spreading. It is really red and noticed a small white head.  I think I have also felt "something" under the armpit but I am not sure since I am swollen. I've been meaning to go to the doctor but haven't.

[Newhall]

Thanks so much for your reply. After I wrote inquiring about the possibility of what this may be I went to the Emergency Room because the area I spoke of became more sensitive, red and swollen. The area that I was referring to (where a small lump was felt) is in the right axilla (below underarm near side breast area). When I saw the doctor I was told it was an abscess (boil) which needed to be drained and she did. Afterwards I had to continue going to the ER for more follow-ups (wound check). At another visit I was told that I also had cellulitis (infection of the skin) and was again told that I needed to take the antibiotics that was prescribed. In any event, I went home with the open wound which has healed. I, again, explained to the doctor(s) that I had felt this "lump" UNDER my skin and told them what the sonogram had revealed (doctor thought it could be a lymph node) and needed further tests perhaps a biopsy. The doctor(s) have felt the "lump" which has by now increased in size and it continues to be hard and in place (doesn't move). I was also told that they have felt possible lymph node(s) under my armpit and it although feels soft it should be further looked at. The suggestion is to a specialist and have a biopsy done on both areas. Furthermore, I suggested to the doctor if another sonogram could be made after she told me that she may have to drain the wound again. She did the sonogram and from what I saw and the doctor stated, it showed a lump with no fluid. Therefore, she did not have to drain it again.

Final diagnosis: Abscess (boil) of chest wall (axilla) and cellulitis; However, lump felt under the skin (the same area where they found the abscess) and underarm lump (possible lymph node )

My problem is that I do not have medical insurance at the moment. I have applied for medical insurance; however, this will take about 45 days or more to be processed. In the meantime, I have to wonder what this could possibly be. I don't have money to pay for doctors or procedures.

Once again, thank you so very much for taking the time to reply.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Newhall:  If this lump is getting bigger, redder, and more painful, it may be that there is an infection.  You should call your doctor and have it evaluated.