Armpit lumps are rather common, especially in women. In most cases, these lumps are caused by infected hair follicles, inflamed skin cysts, benign overgrowths of fatty tissue (lipomas), or inflamed "reactive" benign lymph nodes. Less commonly, enlarged lymph nodes caused by cancer (including breast cancer or lymphoma) may result in armpit (axillary) lumps. (Lymphoma is rarely associated with pain or redness or infection, however.)
Since it is not possible for me to examine patients who post questions on eHealth Forum, my advice is always that patients with new or enlarging axillary lumps visit with their doctor for an examination.
Sincerely/ Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS
www.doctorwascher.com
www.oncoguard.com