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Axillary lymph node cancer refers to the spread of cancer to the lymph nodes located in the armpit (axilla).
This is often a sign of cancer progression, particularly in breast cancer, where axillary lymph nodes are a common site for metastasis.
The presence and extent of cancer in these nodes are crucial for staging and treatment planning.
Understanding Axillary Lymph Nodes:
Location:
Axillary lymph nodes are situated in the armpit and are part of the lymphatic system, which helps filter fluid and fight infection.
Function:
They act as filters, trapping cancer cells that may have detached from a primary tumor, particularly in breast cancer.
Importance in Breast Cancer:
When breast cancer spreads, it often travels to the axillary lymph nodes first, making their involvement a key factor in determining the stage of the cancer.
Cancer Types Associated with Axillary Lymph Node Involvement:
  • Breast Cancer: The most common type of cancer that spreads to axillary lymph nodes.
  • Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can cause swollen lymph nodes, including those in the armpit.
  • Melanoma: Skin cancers like melanoma can also spread to the axillary lymph nodes.
Diagnosis:
Physical Examination:
Doctors can feel for enlarged or abnormal lymph nodes during a physical exam.
Imaging:
Ultrasound, CT scans, and PET scans can help visualize and assess the lymph nodes.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy:
A procedure to remove and examine the first lymph nodes to which cancer is likely to spread from the breast.
Axillary Lymph Node Dissection:
In some cases, more extensive removal and examination of lymph nodes may be necessary.
Treatment:
Surgery:
Removal of the affected lymph nodes (axillary lymph node dissection) is a common approach.
Radiation Therapy:
May be used to target and destroy cancer cells in the lymph nodes.
Chemotherapy:
May be used to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells throughout the body, including in the lymph nodes.
Other Treatments:
Depending on the type and stage of cancer, other treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy may be used.
Prognosis:
Stage:
The presence and number of cancerous lymph nodes are important factors in determining the stage of the cancer and its prognosis.
Treatment Effectiveness:
Treatment outcomes are influenced by the stage of the cancer and the effectiveness of the chosen treatment plan.
Recurrence:
Axillary lymph node involvement can increase the risk of cancer recurrence.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
Overview. An axillary lymph node dissection is breast cancer surgery to remove lymph nodes located in and around your armpit (axilla).
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Axillary Lymph Node Cancer from www.macmillan.org.uk
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