Seroma

On 4/18 I had a lumpectomy and 2 nodes removed (margins clear, nodes negative).  One week ago, I felt swelling and tenderness under my arm and developed a fever.  Started Zithromax, fever gone.  On 5/23 I was to have 2nd round of chemo, but oncologist decided to wait until surgeon examined underarm.  Surgeon called swelling a seroma and removed the fluid (sent to lab for review).  Surgeon does not believe infection was present.  Swelling has returned and area is quite sore.  1)  Could tenderness be due to bruising? 2)  Other than palpating the area, is there a way to ensure there is no abcess (abscess)?  3)  Second round of chemo is now scheduled for 5/28, any reason to wait?  4) How frequently can this condition return?  5)  What can I do to minimize reoccurence and if/when returns, reduce pain.

Thanks!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear scrow:  1) Yes, tenderness can be due to bruising or fluid build up. 2) When the fluid was removed, it may have looked clear and bloody or *****.  Pus would indicate an abcess (abscess).  Palpation would indicate that a fluid build up is back.  If the area is red or hot or you have a fever, it may indicate an abcess (abscess).  3)  If there is a wound then it is valid to wait until it is healed. The 28th is tomorrow so not much waiting left.  4) Although it is not common, this could return.  Depends on the anatomy and the healing process.  5) There is not much you can do to prevent recurrence other than take good care of your arm.  Despite this, it could return.  Be aware of how it looks and go to the doctor quickly (surgeon) if it comes back.  This will minimize pain.