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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes A Lump On Right Inner Elbow With History Of Having Breast Cancer?

I would like to know if there are any lymph nodes in the inner elbow area. I had breast cancer in 2012.I think I may have a lump on my right inner elbow. I also have been doing a lot of things lately that may be a factor. If there are lymph nodes in that area I will go to the dr right away. If not- I have my 24 mo. appt. in October.Sincerely, Susan Imsdahl
Mon, 21 Sep 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Dear Susan, Hi

I appreciate your concern for the lump on right inner elbow.

Yes, there are lymph nodes in the inner aspect of the elbow which are referred to as epitrochlear lymph nodes.

This group of lymph nodes drains the arm, forearm and hand.

Common causes of epitrochlear lymphadenopathy include:

Infections like localized upper extremity infections, HIV, syphilis, leprosy, TB, infectious mononucleosis or cancers like lymphoma, leukemia, sarcoidoisis or some times it may be non specific enlargement.

Since you had a breast cancer way back in 2012, there may be an associated high risk for malignancy in this group of lymph nodes.

In view of the above I would recommend you to under certain lab tests like FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology) or excisional biopsy & histological examination to rule out the possibility of secondary malignancy.

If the biopsy is negative for the malignancy, the other causes should be searched and investigated.

Hope the suggestion given above would enable you to consult your doctor right way.

Best regards.


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What Causes A Lump On Right Inner Elbow With History Of Having Breast Cancer?

Dear Susan, Hi I appreciate your concern for the lump on right inner elbow. Yes, there are lymph nodes in the inner aspect of the elbow which are referred to as epitrochlear lymph nodes. This group of lymph nodes drains the arm, forearm and hand. Common causes of epitrochlear lymphadenopathy include: Infections like localized upper extremity infections, HIV, syphilis, leprosy, TB, infectious mononucleosis or cancers like lymphoma, leukemia, sarcoidoisis or some times it may be non specific enlargement. Since you had a breast cancer way back in 2012, there may be an associated high risk for malignancy in this group of lymph nodes. In view of the above I would recommend you to under certain lab tests like FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology) or excisional biopsy & histological examination to rule out the possibility of secondary malignancy. If the biopsy is negative for the malignancy, the other causes should be searched and investigated. Hope the suggestion given above would enable you to consult your doctor right way. Best regards.