What are the causes of enlarged lymph nodes in the breasts?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been having left armpit pain for the last two weeks. I went for a breast ultrasound and only found an enlarged lymph node (I had another regular ultrasound where this was still dilated) and simple cyst (which was not there in the routine ultrasound), and a new enlarged lymph node on the right. What could be the reason for the pain? I have also started exercising and lifting some weights. Should I ask for a cyst, lymph node biopsy, or mammogram, and the radiologist said it was not needed? Pain is also in the left shoulder and sometimes radiated to the upper arm, wrist and fingers. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I have reviewed your attached reports (the attachments are removed to protect patients' identities) and your reported concerns. It would be best if a formal clinical interview and examination evaluate you, and then any conclusion is made. However, in the limited preview of analysis of the attached report, you seem to have accessory breast tissue in your armpit. It is like having an additional breast in one or both armpits. Growth of this breast tissue usually happens in your age group and after pregnancies. This growth is the likely reason for discomfort and sometimes pain.The rest of the report is not suspicious of any cancer, and the lymph nodes are also reported as usual. So, from this, a tiny cyst is also a normal variation.

Relax, it would be helpful if you wear an appropriate size and well-supportive brasserie, and the pain should be gone in a couple of days.

If you have a family history of cancers or you find some change in the feel or appearance of your breasts, do consult back.

I hope that helps.

Kind regards.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You are unlikely to feel any of these lymph nodes, as they are small. So, not a concern.

Fibroadenosis, better termed fibrocystic benign breast disease, is a degenerative change of the breast that does slow down by menopause. As you informed, your grandmother has uterine cancer, and it needs further discussion regarding what type of cancer and at what age it was diagnosed. Any other family members are having cancer. This discussion is possible and will be productive only if you have the respective medical records.

A yearly mammogram is not suggested for your age. And there is no need for any frequent follow-up in your case. However, it would be best to do a monthly self-breast examination to be aware of your breasts.

If you find any change in feel, appearance, or discharge, do visit a surgical oncologist.

I hope that helps.

Kind regards.