Treatment for Axillary Lymphadenopathy
The approach of treatment for axillary lymphadenopathy will depend on the underlying cause. Benign cases that don’t cause any other symptoms may be treated with a watchful approach only.
However, if your condition is caused by an infection, or an autoimmune or inflammatory disease, your doctor will first prescribe steroids. [10] This is to help reduce the size of lymph nodes as well as pain and tenderness.
Malignant causes of axillary lymphadenopathy aren’t as common. However, it is important that you immediately visit your doctor for prompt diagnosis. Treatment is crucial in preventing the further spread of cancer to other lymph nodes, as well as vital organs.
If after diagnosis your doctor concludes that your condition is cancerous, your doctor will refer you to an oncologist. [11] This cancer specialist will stage the cancer and then determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition, such as:
- Axillary lymph node removal
- Other surgeries related to the specific cancer, such as lumpectomy for breast cancer
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy