Cyst or Lymph Node

Hello,

When I was 6 months into pregnancy I developed a lump under my right armpit.  It is located in the upper half of the armpit.  I went to my OBGYN and he did a complete breast exam felt of the lump in great detail.  He said it felt like a cyst and that since it was located on the upper part of the armpit he didn't think it was a lymph node.  I had another Doctor take a look at this lump and he said it was nothing to worry about but if it got bigger he could lance it.  After my delivery I noticed in just a few days time it had doubled in size so I went back to the OBGYN and he lance it and gave me some antibiotics.  Once again telling me it was nothing to worry about.  This brought the lump back down to about the size of a grape.  I have taken a round of antibiotics and it's gotten a little better but it's still there.  Should antibiotics take care of all of the swelling if it really is a cyst or do they take longer to heal?

I fell embarrased to go back after two doctors have told me it was nothing to worry about.


Can doctors tell the difference just by feeling of a lump?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

It can be either.  Both cysts and lymph nodes can present in the armpit.  However, lymph nodes in the armpit can be associated with more dangerous causes, such as breast cancer or HIV.  Because of this, I would err on the cautious side and ensure it isn't an enlarged lymph node, before attributing it to a cyst.

A surgery referral should be considered to give further clarity to this lump.  A biopsy may be considered to make a definitive diagnosis.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b