Differential Diagnosis for Swollen Bilateral Axilla Lymph Nodes
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Infectious Mononucleosis: This condition, caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), often presents with lymphadenopathy, including swollen lymph nodes in the axilla, along with fever, sore throat, and fatigue. The presence of bilateral axillary lymphadenopathy can be a clue, although it's not exclusive to this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tuberculosis (TB): TB can cause lymphadenopathy, including in the axillary region. Although it's more commonly associated with pulmonary symptoms, extrapulmonary TB can manifest with lymph node swelling.
- Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can present with lymphadenopathy. While it's less common for lymphoma to initially present with axillary lymph node swelling, it's a consideration, especially in the absence of infectious symptoms.
- Cat-Scratch Disease: Caused by Bartonella henselae, this condition typically follows a cat scratch or bite and can lead to swollen lymph nodes, often in the axilla if the scratch was on the arm.
- Brucellosis: This zoonotic infection can cause lymphadenopathy among other systemic symptoms. It's less common but should be considered in individuals with exposure to animals or their products.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Breast Cancer: Although less likely, axillary lymphadenopathy can be a sign of breast cancer, either as a primary presentation or as part of metastatic disease. Given the potential severity, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis, especially in women.
- Lymphoma (again, due to its potential severity and the importance of early diagnosis): While listed under other likely diagnoses, the severity and importance of not missing lymphoma warrant its mention here as well.
- HIV Infection: Acute HIV infection can present with lymphadenopathy, among other symptoms. Identifying HIV early is critical for managing the disease and preventing long-term complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that involves an overgrowth of cells in the lymphatic system, which can lead to lymphadenopathy, including in the axilla.
- Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A rare, self-limiting condition that causes lymphadenopathy, typically in the neck but can also affect axillary nodes.
- Sarcoidosis: Although more commonly associated with pulmonary symptoms and lymphadenopathy in the chest, sarcoidosis can rarely cause axillary lymph node swelling.
- Silicone Implant Illness: In individuals with breast implants, especially those with silicone implants, axillary lymphadenopathy can be a symptom of an immune response to the implant material.