Differential Diagnosis for Swelling Lump on Axillary with Abscess Discharge
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Hidradenitis suppurativa: This condition is characterized by recurrent, painful abscesses and nodules in the apocrine-gland-bearing areas, such as the axilla. The presence of a swelling lump with abscess discharge in the axillary region makes hidradenitis suppurativa a strong candidate for the diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Furuncle or carbuncle: These are types of skin infections that can cause abscesses, often in areas with hair follicles, such as the axilla. They can present as swollen, painful lumps with discharge.
- Cystic hygroma or axillary cyst: Although less common, these conditions can cause lumps in the axillary region and may become infected, leading to abscess discharge.
- Cat scratch disease: This bacterial infection can cause lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) and abscesses in the axilla, especially if the scratch occurred on the arm.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Tuberculosis (TB) lymphadenitis: Although less common, TB can cause lymph node swelling and abscesses in the axilla. Missing this diagnosis could lead to severe consequences, including the spread of TB.
- Malignancy (e.g., lymphoma, breast cancer): In rare cases, a swelling lump in the axilla with abscess discharge could be a sign of an underlying malignancy. It is crucial to rule out these conditions to ensure timely treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Actinomycosis: This rare bacterial infection can cause abscesses and draining sinuses in the skin, including the axilla.
- Mycetoma: A chronic, granulomatous infection caused by fungi or bacteria, which can lead to swelling, sinus formation, and discharge in the affected area, including the axilla.
- Axillary lymphadenitis due to other rare infections (e.g., melioidosis, brucellosis): These conditions are uncommon but can cause lymph node swelling and abscesses in the axilla.