Question

A 45-year-old patient presents with swelling in the axillary region.
What are the causes of swelling in the axillary region?

Hint:

When assessing axillary swelling, always consider both infectious and non-infectious causes. A thorough physical examination and appropriate imaging are essential for a correct diagnosis.

Answer 1

Step 1: Common Causes of Axillary Swelling.
- Infections: A common cause of axillary swelling is an abscess, which can result from a bacterial infection. It may present with redness, warmth, and tenderness.
- Lymphadenopathy: Swelling of the lymph nodes (e.g., due to infection, lymphoma, or metastatic cancer) can cause axillary swelling.
- Lipomas: Benign fatty tumors can cause a painless, mobile mass in the axillary region.
- Breast Cancer: Advanced breast cancer may present with axillary lymphadenopathy due to metastasis.
- Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Chronic skin condition involving blocked sweat glands can cause abscesses and swelling in the axillary region.
- Cysts: Sebaceous or epidermal cysts can form in the axillary region and cause localized swelling.

Step 2: Conclusion.
Axillary swelling can be caused by various conditions, ranging from benign conditions like lipomas and cysts to serious conditions like lymphoma or metastatic breast cancer.