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Can Normal Mammograms Near Armpit Lymph Nodes Appearing Bright?

Posted on Tue, 7 Jan 2025

Question: Hi. I just had a mammogram this morning. I had a mammogram in my early 30s after I found a lump in my breast that ended up being a fibrochondroadenoma. When the tech was done, she allowed me to see the mammogram that showed the spots where I had a biopsy years ago, but there were also a two small bright spots on the picture that showed my armpit. I asked her about them and she said they were just lymph nodes and told me not to worry, but I looked at normal mammograms and do not see the armpit lymph nodes appearing bright in any of them. Does this sound abnormal?

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Bright spots mean calcifications

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Bright spots on mammogram usually represent calcification. Lymph nodes present in armpit drain the breast, chest and arm. Lymph nodes get inflamed when there is any infection or inflammation of the draining area. Calcifications happen when inflammation has healed.
To me also this doesnot sound suspicious of cancer. However a biopsy is the test that confirms the diagnosis. I think currently its not needed in your case.

Hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Dr Vaishalee

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Vaishalee Punj (19 hours later)

Thank you. Is it typical to only have visible (bright) spots on one side? I sometimes get a rash with my workout bra. Would it be possible that the rash could lead to this?

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes its normal to be on one side

Detailed Answer:
Hi again

Yes its normal to have bright spots on one side only, especially if it is due to some infection or one-sided problem like rash. Rash with workout bra is most likely candida and this rash could have caused one sided calcifications.

Regards
Dr Vaishalee

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Vaishalee Punj (1 hour later)

Thanks again!

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Thanks

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for consulting me online.

Take care
Dr Vaishalee

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj