Q. What is the difference between a swollen lymph node and a cyst in the armpit?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Swollen lymph nodes and cysts in the armpit are two different entities, and they can be distinguished based on their characteristics and underlying causes:
1. Swollen Lymph Node (Lymphadenopathy):
- Location: Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system and are found throughout the body, including in the armpit.
- Size and Consistency: Swollen lymph nodes are typically small, ranging from a few millimeters to a centimeter in size. They are usually soft or rubbery in texture.
- Cause: Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit are often a sign that the body is fighting an infection or dealing with inflammation. They can enlarge in response to an infection or other immune system activity.
- Tenderness: Swollen lymph nodes can be tender or painful to the touch, especially if they are actively responding to an infection.
2. Cyst:
- Location: Cysts are typically found within or just beneath the skin and may occur in various parts of the body, including the armpit.
- Size and Consistency: Cysts are often larger than lymph nodes, typically ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size. They are usually fluid-filled sacs and can feel soft to the touch.
- Cause: Cysts are generally formed when a gland or duct in the skin becomes blocked, leading to the accumulation of fluid, dead skin cells, or other materials.
- Tenderness: Cysts may or may not be tender, depending on their size, location, and the presence of infection or inflammation.
In summary, the key differences between swollen lymph nodes and cysts in the armpit are their location, size, consistency, and underlying causes. Swollen lymph nodes are part of the immune system's response to infection or inflammation, while cysts are typically related to blocked glands or ducts in the skin. If you discover a lump in your armpit, it's important to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine its exact nature and any necessary treatment.