Recurrent Axillary Lymph Gland

[bostongal]

I am a 45 year old woman. Three months ago I visited my primary physician with a swollen, painful lymph node under right armpit. He examined and determined that it was most likely an infection. Three weeks later he had me in for follow-up and the lymph gland was still swollen but no longer painful. He decided on a wait and see approach, still staying that it was an infection. I have recently had a mammogram that was clear. Over time I became less aware of the gland but the swelling never really receeded. Three weeks ago the lymph gland became large and hard. There is no pain but it feels like I am walking around with a baseball in my armpit.

Should I be concerned about this and revisit my physician? Is there it likely that this is caused by an infection?

Thanks - Meg

[Dr. Tamer Fouad]

Hello,

Yes, you should revisit your doctor if your gland has grown larger. This is a very important rule. Even if it is a recurrent infection a source needs to be determined. Sometimes a recurrent infection is a warning sign for something serious underlying the infection. More commonly, it just means that the infection has not been adequately dealt with.

Please keep us updated.

[bostongal]

Thank you for replying.

As an update I went back to my primary doctor who sent me to an oncologist who did a breast exam, sent me for a mammogram and an CT with contrast. Both doctors agree that it is not a lymph gland as was suspected and that it is likely a tumor. I go back to the oncologist on January 13th to discuss what the next step is, either biopsy or removal.

I will update when I get further information.

thanks again.

Meg

[Dr. Tamer Fouad]

Hello,

Thanks for the update. Please be sure to post the results here once you get them.

Good luck with the scans!