Differential Diagnosis for a Painful Tender 3 Breast Lump in Armpit
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Breast cyst or abscess: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the description of a painful tender lump in the armpit area, which could be related to the breast tissue. Breast cysts are common and can become infected, leading to an abscess.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lymphadenitis: Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpit can cause painful lumps, which could be related to an infection or other inflammatory conditions.
- Lipoma: A benign fatty tumor that can occur in the armpit area, potentially causing a lump, although it is typically painless.
- Infected sebaceous cyst: A sebaceous cyst that becomes infected can cause a painful lump in the armpit area.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Breast cancer with axillary metastasis: Although less likely, it is crucial not to miss breast cancer that has spread to the axillary lymph nodes, as it requires prompt treatment.
- Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can present with lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes) in the armpit, which could be painful.
Rare Diagnoses
- Hygroma: A rare, benign condition that can cause a lump in the armpit, typically presenting as a soft, cystic mass.
- Neurofibroma: A rare tumor of the nerve tissue that can occur in the armpit, potentially causing a lump.
- Axillary schwannoma: A rare, benign tumor of the nerve sheath that can occur in the armpit, causing a lump.