Is a 1.6cm Axillary Lymph Node Considered Large?

Update Date: 2024-05-28 Source: Network

The lymphatic system is a crucial immune organ in our bodies. When the body experiences inflammation or discomfort, the lymphatic organs come into play. Lymphadenopathy, which is the enlargement of lymph nodes, is particularly common in daily life, and can occur in many parts of the body. Lymph nodes under the armpits should be taken seriously, and it is recommended to promptly visit the hospital for a check-up. Cancer can also cause lymphadenopathy, and regardless of the cause, it is necessary to seek medical attention and treatment promptly.

1. Is a 1.6cm lymph node under the armpit considered large?

A lymph node under the armpit measuring 1.6cm is considered large, indicating lymphadenopathy. It is recommended that patients undergo a detailed examination at the hospital to determine the cause. A commonly used examination is ultrasonography, which can not only measure the size of the lymph node but also observe its morphology, blood flow, and other conditions, providing a certain degree of assistance in judging the nature of the lymph node.

2. What should I do if I have lymphadenopathy under the armpit?

Local lymphadenopathy under the armpit should be examined with a local color Doppler ultrasound. Normal individuals also have lymph nodes in their armpits, but if there is significant enlargement or pain, it is a pathological change, and it is necessary to further search for the underlying disease. The most common cause is breast disease. Breast hyperplasia or trauma can lead to reactive hyperplasia of the axillary lymph nodes. Therefore, the first step is to treat the breast disease, and symptoms can be alleviated through physical therapy such as heat application. For breast inflammation, it can lead to the enlargement, swelling, and pain of the axillary lymph nodes, and symptoms can gradually improve after anti-infective treatment. However, in the case of malignant breast tumors with axillary lymph node metastasis, radical resection surgery should be actively considered if medically feasible. Preoperative neoadjuvant therapy may also be an option in some cases.

3. What should I do if I have pain in the lymph nodes under my armpits?

Pain in the lymph nodes under the armpits may be due to lymphadenitis or infection in the axillary region. There are various causes of lymphadenitis, such as axillary folliculitis or sebaceous cyst infection, which can affect the axillary lymph nodes and cause inflammation. Oral antibiotics, such as cephalosporins or penicillins like amoxicillin, can be prescribed. Once the infection is controlled, the lymph nodes will disappear, and the pain will also resolve. However, the possibility of lymphoma or metastasis from a malignant tumor cannot be excluded. It is recommended to promptly undergo a breast and axillary ultrasound examination at the hospital. If malignancy is suspected, a biopsy can be performed for further diagnosis.