Is the Enlargement of Lymph Nodes in the Right Axilla Serious?

If lymphadenitis causes lymphadenectasis, it is generally not serious; however, if it is painless lymphadenectasis, it is relatively more serious and may be caused by tumor metastasis. Lymphadenitis is a disease formed after the lymph nodes are infected by bacteria, manifesting as redness, swelling, and pain in the lymph nodes. The pain is particularly obvious when pressing the lymph nodes with hands. Oral antibiotics, such as cefixime or cefradine, are required for treatment, or intravenous antibiotics, such as cefoxitin, can be used. During the treatment process, lymphadenectasis can often regress, and the pain can be relieved.

If painless lymphadenectasis is caused by tumor metastasis, there is a relatively high possibility of breast cancer metastasis. It is necessary to check whether there are masses inside the breasts. If there are masses, further evaluation can be conducted through breast ultrasonography or mammography. If suspected to be caused by breast cancer, modified radical mastectomy should be performed. After the surgery, the next step of treatment plan will be determined based on the pathological results and staging.

1. Bacterial infection: Infectious mononucleosis, measles, and other diseases can lead to lymphadenectasis. Sometimes, the lymph nodes have important diagnostic value. For instance, patients with rubella often have enlarged posterior occipital lymph nodes.

2. Leukemia: Leukemia patients often experience systemic lymphadenectasis, but the lymphadenectasis in the axilla, neck, and groin is most prominent. In addition to lymphadenectasis, leukemia patients may also have anemia, persistent fever, and a large number of immature cells in the blood and bone marrow.

3. Bacterial infection: Acute inflammation in the face, mouth, and other areas can lead to enlarged submandibular lymph nodes. Usually, the enlarged lymph nodes are relatively soft and mobile. The lymphadenectasis often resolves after the inflammation disappears.

4. Lymphoma: Lymphoma patients often present with enlarged cervical lymph nodes. Lymphoma mainly occurs in tumors of the lymph nodes and lymphatic tissue, and lesions outside the lymph nodes can also lead to lymphoma, such as damage to the tonsils, gastrointestinal tract, nasopharynx, spleen, and other areas.

5. Lymph node tuberculosis: Cervical lymphadenectasis is commonly seen. Some patients may experience ulceration, which is clinically difficult to distinguish from lymphoma.