Axillary lymphadenopathy: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

The disorder known as axillary lymphadenopathy causes the lymph nodes in the armpit to swell and expand.

• Reactive Lymphadenopathy: It is a condition where the lymph nodes become swollen due to an infection or other medical condition, such as an autoimmune disorder. This type of lymphadenopathy is usually caused by a localised infection, such as a cold or the flu, and is usually not serious.
• Infectious Lymphadenopathy: This type of lymphadenopathy is caused by infections and can be either localised or systemic. Examples of infections that can cause this type of lymphadenopathy include tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, mononucleosis and cat scratch fever.
• Malignant Lymphadenopathy: This type of axillary lymphadenopathy is caused by cancerous tumours in the lymph nodes and can be life-threatening if left untreated. Common types of malignant lymphadenopathy include Hodgkin’s disease and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Metastatic Lymphadenopathy: This type of axillary lymphadenopathy occurs when cancer cells from another part of the body spread to the axillary lymph nodes and form tumours there.

Axillary lymphadenopathy, or swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:-

• Infection: This is by far the most prevalent cause of lymphadenopathy in the axillary region. Infections may be brought on by a variety of organisms, including viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites.Examples include HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr virus), cat scratch disease (Bartonella henselae) and toxoplasmosis (Toxoplasma gondii).
• Cancer: Cancer can spread from other parts of the body to the axillary lymph nodes, causing them to swell. Examples include breast cancer and lymphoma.
• Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can cause swelling of the axillary lymph nodes due to an overactive immune response.
• Injury or trauma: Injury or trauma to the axillary area can cause swelling of the lymph nodes due to inflammation from scar tissue or an infection from an open wound.
• Allergies: Allergies can trigger an inflammatory response in the body which can cause swelling of the axillary lymph nodes.

• The most prominent sign of axillary lymphadenopathy is the presence of enlarged lymph glands or lymph nodes in the armpit. These swollen glands or lymph nodes may be tender to the touch and can range in size from a pea to a walnut.
• Other symptoms associated with axillary lymphadenopathy include: fever, night sweats, malaise, fatigue, weight loss, pain in the armpit, and enlarged veins in the arm.
• In some cases, the lymph nodes may become infected and present with an abscess or pus pockets.
• If an abscess forms in a swollen node it may cause redness and warmth of the skin around the area of infection as well as fever and chills if a bacterial infection is present.

• Keeping a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet, exercising frequently, and getting adequate rest, is one of the most effective ways to strengthen the immune system.
• Avoiding contact with people who have an infection or other illness that can put you at risk of developing lymphadenopathy.
• Regular hand washing with soap and water is one of the best ways to protect against becoming sick and preventing the spread of illness.
• Avoiding contact with sick animals or animal waste that can carry infectious agents that can cause lymphadenopathy.
• Not sharing personal items such as toothbrushes or razors with other people as this can spread infections that may lead to lymphadenopathy.
• Protecting yourself from bites by mosquitoes or ticks which may carry diseases that cause lymphadenopathy, such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

The diagnosis tests for axillary lymphadenopathy include:-

• Physical Examination: During a physical examination, the doctor will check the size, tension and mobility of the enlarged lymph nodes.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are imaging methods that may be used to identify swollen lymph nodes and determine whether or not the body is abnormal.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of tissue from an enlarged node is taken and examined under a microscope to identify any abnormal cells.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests can be used to detect any underlying infections or diseases that may be causing the enlargement of the lymph nodes.
• Aspirate: Aspirate is a procedure where a needle is inserted into the enlarged node to draw out some of its content for further examination in a lab setting.

Possible complications include:-

• Infection: If the enlarged lymph nodes are caused by a bacterial or viral infection, they can become abscessed, which can lead to further infection and spread of bacteria throughout the body.
• Cancer: Enlarged lymph nodes can be a sign of a malignant tumour or cancer, such as breast cancer, Hodgkin's disease, or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
• Nerve Damage: If the enlarged lymph nodes press on nearby nerves, it can cause numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers.
• Lymphedema: This is swelling that occurs when fluid accumulates in an area due to blockage of the lymphatic system. It is usually caused by damage to the lymphatic vessels from surgery, radiation therapy, or trauma.
• Weakness: If enlarged axillary lymph nodes press on certain muscles and nerves in the arm, it can cause weakness or paralysis in that arm.

• Turmeric powder with milk: Take 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and mix it with a glass of warm milk. Drink this mixture 2-3 times a day for several weeks to reduce the swelling in the armpit lymph nodes.
• Castor oil: Heat some castor oil and massage it gently over the swollen lymph nodes in your armpit.Do this every day for a few weeks to reduce the swelling and pain.
• Neem leaves: Boil a handful of neem leaves in 3 cups of water until the liquid reduces to one cup. Strain it, allow it to cool and use this solution as an herbal wash for the affected area twice daily for a few weeks to reduce swelling in the lymph nodes.
• Garlic: Make a paste of garlic cloves and apply it on the affected area on your armpit 3-4 times daily for a few weeks to reduce inflammation in the lymph nodes.
• Ginger: Make a paste of ginger and apply it on your armpit, leave it overnight and rinse off in the morning with lukewarm water. Repeat this 2-3 times daily for at least 2 weeks to get relief from axillary lymphadenopathy.

• While coping with axillary lymphadenopathy, eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats will help strengthen the immune system and support the body.
• To help decrease inflammation, eat foods rich in antioxidants like blueberries, pomegranates, cranberries, and cherries.
• Increase your intake of garlic and ginger as they contain antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Eat foods rich in vitamin C to help boost the immune system such as oranges, kiwi fruit, broccoli and bell peppers.
• Incorporate more Omega-3 fatty acids into your diet by eating salmon, sardines, flaxseed oil and walnuts which can also help reduce inflammation.

• Processed, sugary, and fried foods: These types of foods can increase inflammation and worsen symptoms of axillary lymphadenopathy.
• Red meat: Red meat has a lot of saturated fat, which has been related to bodily inflammation.
• Dairy products: Dairy may cause an increase in mucus production, which can worsen the symptoms of axillary lymphadenopathy.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can be irritating to the lymph nodes and should be avoided when suffering from axillary lymphadenopathy.

• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: This procedure is used to diagnose and treat axillary lymphadenopathy by removing the lymph nodes most likely to be affected by a tumour. The surgeon locates and removes the sentinel lymph nodes (the first node in the chain of lymph nodes closest to the tumour) to determine if cancer cells are present.
• Excisional Lymph Node Biopsy: This procedure involves surgically removing an entire lymph node or multiple lymph nodes for examination under a microscope. An incision will be made in the location where the swollen node is situated, and a surgeon will remove it and examine it for malignant cells during this treatment.
• Axillary Dissection: During this procedure, a surgeon will remove a number of axillary (underarm) lymph nodes to determine if they are cancerous or benign. This procedure is usually recommended if cancer is detected in one or more sentinel lymph nodes during a sentinel node biopsy.
• Axillary Lymphadenectomy: A more extensive surgery than an axillary dissection, an axillary lymphadenectomy involves removing all of the axillary (underarm) lymph nodes in order to check for cancer cells that may have spread from another part of the body.
• Laparoscopic Lymph Node Dissection: As opposed to traditional open surgery, laparoscopic surgery uses tiny incisions and special cameras and instruments that allow surgeons to view inside the body without having to open up large areas of tissue with large incisions as with traditional surgery. This technique can be used for axillary (underarm) lymph node dissections as well as other types of operations such as gallbladder removal or appendectomy.

To diagnose axillary lymphadenopathy, you should consult a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the lymphatic system.

This could include a haematologist/oncologist (cancer specialist), an immunologist (immune system specialist), or an infectious disease specialist.

Your primary care physician could suggest one of these experts to you if more testing or medical care is required.

• Antibiotics: They are used to treat bacterial illnesses include skin infections, urinary tract infections, and strep throat. Examples include penicillin, ciprofloxacin, and amoxicillin.
• Corticosteroids: These are used to reduce inflammation in the lymph nodes that can cause pain and swelling. Examples include prednisone, methylprednisolone, and hydrocortisone.
• Immunosuppressants: These drugs help to reduce the body's immune system response to an infection or other condition that is causing the lymph nodes to swell. Examples include cyclosporine and azathioprine.
• Antivirals: These are used to treat viral infections, such as HIV and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Examples include acyclovir and ganciclovir.
• Antifungals: These are used to treat fungal infections such as candidiasis (thrush). Examples include fluconazole and ketoconazole.
• Chemotherapy: This is a powerful drug treatment used for cancer patients that can also be used for axillary lymphadenopathy in some cases where a tumour is present in the lymph node(s). Examples of chemotherapy drugs include doxorubicin, paclitaxel, and vincristine

The underlying cause of axillary lymphadenopathy affects how long it takes to heal.

Treatment typically involves antibiotics or other medications which can take several weeks to a few months.

The length of recovery if cancer was the cause would depend on the disease's stage and the proposed course of therapy.

No, the results of treatment for axillary lymphadenopathy are not permanent. Treatment usually provides relief from symptoms and can help reduce the size of swollen lymph nodes.

However, recurrences may occur and long-term management or preventative measures may be necessary to keep symptoms under control.

• After treatment of axillary lymphadenopathy, it is important to follow up with regular check-ups and monitoring tests.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial, and this includes getting regular exercise and eating a balanced diet.
• Keep the affected area clean and dry, and avoid any type of contact with irritants or allergens that may aggravate the condition.
• If lymphadenopathy is caused by an infection, it is important to practise good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with anyone who may be ill or have an infection.
• It is also important to keep track of any changes in size or shape of the affected lymph nodes, as well as any signs of infection such as fever or pain.
• If you experience any symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches that are not relieved by over-the-counter medications, seek medical attention immediately.

The cost of Axillary lymphadenopathy treatments in India depends on the type of treatment chosen and the severity of the condition. Generally, treatments such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and local heat applications may range from Rs 1000 to Rs 5000.

Surgical removal of affected lymph nodes may cost anywhere between Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000 or more. Radiation therapy may cost up to Rs 1 lakh or more depending on the number of sessions required.

• Surgery: Pain and risk of infection, scarring, blood loss, nerve damage
• Radiation therapy: Skin irritation, fatigue, hair loss in treatment area, organ damage
• Chemotherapy: Nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, anaemia

See a local physician if you are experiencing any Axillary lymphadenopathy-related symptoms since they may lead to 'weakness, lymphoedema, malignancy, etc.' Addiction treatment programmes may last anything from a few months to many years, depending on how serious the issue is.