Differential Diagnosis for Left Axillary Node Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Breast Cancer: The most common cause of axillary lymph node pain, especially in women, is breast cancer. The axillary lymph nodes are a common site for metastasis from breast tumors.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Infectious Causes (e.g., Cellulitis, Abscess): Infections in the arm or chest can spread to the axillary lymph nodes, causing pain and swelling.
- Lymphadenitis: Inflammation of the lymph nodes due to infection or other causes can lead to pain in the axillary region.
- Cat Scratch Disease: Caused by Bartonella henselae, this infection is transmitted through cat scratches or bites and can lead to axillary lymphadenopathy.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can present with lymph node enlargement and pain, including in the axillary region. Missing this diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment of a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Metastatic Cancer: Cancers other than breast cancer, such as lung, melanoma, or gastrointestinal cancers, can metastasize to the axillary lymph nodes, causing pain.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can cause lymphadenopathy, including in the axillary region, though it is less common.
- Kikuchi Disease: A rare form of lymphadenitis that can cause axillary lymph node pain, more commonly seen in young women.
- Silicone Implant-Associated Lymphadenopathy: In individuals with silicone breast implants, there can be a reaction that leads to lymphadenopathy, including in the axillary nodes.