What does it mean if there is a small round ball inside the armpit, and what should I do?

Generally, a small round ball inside the armpit may be caused by accessory breast, folliculitis, lymphadenitis, sebaceous cyst, lipoma, or other reasons. Patients should seek medical attention promptly at a regular hospital to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Accessory Breast: An accessory breast may be caused by congenital developmental abnormalities, hormonal changes, excessive obesity, or other factors. It typically presents as a round or oval mass, and some patients may experience the sensation of a small round ball inside the armpit. In such cases, patients can visit a reputable hospital for procedures like accessory breast excision or liposuction to improve the condition.

2. Folliculitis: Folliculitis is a bacterial infection affecting the hair follicles of the armpit skin. When the follicles become infected with bacteria, inflammation occurs, leading to localized redness, swelling, pain, and possibly the formation of small granular or spherical protrusions. Patients can use medications such as erythromycin ointment, fusidic acid sodium ointment, or mupirocin ointment as directed by a physician.

3. Lymphadenitis: Lymphadenitis refers to enlarged and painful lymph nodes caused by infection or inflammatory stimuli. The armpit contains numerous lymph nodes, and when inflammation arises from conditions such as mastitis or infectious lesions in the axillary region, it may lead to swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, forming round, ball-like masses. Patients can take medications such as tetracycline tablets, roxithromycin capsules, or cephalexin capsules as prescribed by a doctor to alleviate symptoms.

4. Sebaceous Cyst: A sebaceous cyst develops when the sebaceous gland duct in the armpit becomes blocked, causing a retention cyst filled with sebaceous secretions that cannot drain normally. The cyst contains white, cheese-like secretions, which can easily become secondarily infected by bacteria, leading to odor and potentially the aforementioned symptoms. Sebaceous cysts usually require timely surgical removal at a reputable hospital, including complete excision of the cyst wall to prevent recurrence.

5. Lipoma: Lipomas may be caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits, abnormal fat metabolism, chronic inflammation, genetic factors, or other reasons. They typically present as single or multiple localized masses, commonly occurring on the shoulders, back, abdomen, armpits, and other areas, and may also manifest the aforementioned symptoms. Small lipomas can be monitored for changes, while larger ones or those causing discomfort usually require timely surgical removal at a reputable hospital.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a positive mindset, avoid spicy, irritating, and greasy foods, rest adequately, and cultivate healthy lifestyle habits.