Breast Axillary Tail - Dr. Hina Khan
The breast axillary tail, also known as the axillary tail of Spence, refers to a narrow extension of breast tissue that extends into the axilla (armpit) region. This extension is a normal anatomical feature of the breast and can sometimes be palpable as a small lump or thickening in the armpit area.
An axilla lump, on the other hand, refers to any abnormal mass or swelling located in the axilla. Axillary lumps can have various causes, including:
- Enlarged lymph nodes: Lymph nodes in the axillary region can become enlarged due to infection, inflammation, or cancer metastasis from the breast or other nearby structures.
- Lipomas: These are benign tumors made up of fatty tissue that can develop in the axilla or other parts of the body.
- Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs can form in the axillary region, often due to blocked ducts or glands.
- Abscesses: Infections in the sweat glands or hair follicles of the axilla can lead to the formation of abscesses, which are pockets of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue.
- Fibroadenomas: These are benign tumors made up of glandular and fibrous tissue and can sometimes develop in the axillary tail of the breast.
It's important to have any new or concerning lumps in the axilla evaluated by a surgeon, particularly if they are associated with other symptoms such as pain, changes in size or shape, or skin changes.
A thorough clinical examination, possibly supplemented by imaging studies such as ultrasound or mammography, may be necessary to determine the cause of the lump and guide further management.
What are treatments available for the breast axillary tail?
The breast axillary tail, also known as the axillary tail of Spence, is a normal extension of breast tissue into the armpit area. Typically, no specific treatment is needed for the axillary tail itself unless there are associated issues such as discomfort, asymmetry, or aesthetic concerns.
However, if there are concerns related to the appearance or function of the breast axillary tail, treatment options may include:
- Surgical Removal: In cases where the axillary tail causes significant discomfort, asymmetry, or interference with clothing or movement, surgical removal may be considered. This procedure, known as an axillary tail excision or axillary tail reduction, involves removing the excess breast tissue in the axillary region to improve symmetry and alleviate symptoms.
- Liposuction: In some instances, liposuction may be used to reduce the size of the axillary tail by removing excess fatty tissue. This minimally invasive procedure can help improve the contour of the armpit area without the need for extensive surgical incisions.
- Cosmetic Procedures: In cases where the primary concern is aesthetics, various cosmetic procedures may be considered to enhance the appearance of the axillary region. This could include treatments such as laser therapy, skin tightening procedures, or injectable fillers to improve skin texture and contour.
- Monitoring and Observation: In many cases, the presence of the axillary tail does not cause significant issues and may not require any specific treatment. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional can help ensure that any changes or concerns are addressed promptly.
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