Underarm Sensitivity and Associated Issues

The underarm area is highly sensitive, yet the presence of underarm hair typically does not cause discomfort. However, any pain or itching in this area can be quite noticeable. Some people may experience a sensation of something pressing against their underarms, which can be attributed to common conditions such as lipomas or accessory breasts. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Let's explore what to do when you feel something pressing against your underarms.

What to Do When You Feel Something Pressing Against Your Underarms

The sensation of something pressing against the underarms could be due to a lipoma or an accessory breast. A definitive diagnosis can only be made after a consultation with a doctor. Lipomas are benign tumors of soft tissue composed of mature fat cells and can occur in any part of the body where fat is present. They commonly develop on the shoulders, back, neck, breasts, and abdomen, followed by the proximal extremities such as the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks. Lipomas are mainly located beneath the skin, known as superficial lipomas, but they can also be found deeper in the limbs and muscles, referred to as deep lipomas.

Accessory breasts refer to additional breasts that appear besides the normal pair of breasts. They typically develop in the anterior or axillary region but can also occur in other areas such as the upper and lower chest, abdomen, and groin. The formation of accessory breasts is attributed to the presence of 6 to 8 pairs of mammary glands along the lines from the armpits to the groin during embryonic development. Before birth, all but the pair in front of the chest regress. However, due to abnormal development, some of these mammary glands may fail to regress completely, resulting in multiple breasts, also known as polymastia. Accessory breasts can manifest as having breast tissue without a nipple, having both breast tissue and a nipple, or having a nipple without breast tissue.

Treatment for Lipomas

Isolated lipomas with a diameter of less than 1 cm generally require no treatment. Larger lipomas may be surgically removed, but deep-seated lipomas can be challenging to remove completely and may recur locally. However, they rarely undergo malignant transformation. The treatment for multiple lipomas also focuses on local excision.

Treatment for Accessory Breasts

Accessory breasts are congenital developmental abnormalities that can affect appearance and carry a risk of developing breast malignancies. Therefore, surgical removal is recommended. The surgical procedure involves excision of the accessory breast tissue, excess fat, and skin, followed by compressive dressing. Surgical intervention is particularly advisable in the following situations:

• When there is a confirmed tumor or malignancy within the accessory breast
• When symptoms such as pain and tenderness are evident and vary with the menstrual cycle
• When the accessory breast is prominent and significantly impacts social activities and quality of life

It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans.