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I Developed A Small Lump Under My Armpit 48 Hours

Posted on Fri, 3 Apr 2020

Question: I developed a small lump under my armpit 48 hours ago. Surface of the skin is red. It’s painful. After squeezing it a small whitehead formed or so it looked like it did. I’m trying to figure out if it’s a huge pimple or tumor

Would a cancerous tumor develop that quickly and be painful like this

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Probably ateroma

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
No, there is no possibility of tumor to develop in such short time and these symptoms are typical of inflamed ateroma, or abscess. This is usually a cyst which became infected, and people may call it pimple as well. So there is no need to be worried and it is good if it drains spontaneously. However, if redness and pain spread, you should see doctor who will perform incision and drainage under local anesthesia. Wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (19 minutes later)

Thank you so much for your reply. How long does it generally take for it to drain/go away and should I do anything specific to help it drain/go away?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
follow-up

Detailed Answer:
Well, it should burst spontaneously and drain out usually in a few days.

You can apply antibiotic ointment or mild steroid cream. But it is important to keep area clean and if it worsens, you should see general surgeon for further treatment.

Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee