Identify enlarged or abnormal lymph nodes
Ultrasound can detect nodal enlargement, cortical thickening, and loss of hilum – features that distinguish benign reactive nodes from suspicious or malignant nodes.
Axillary ultrasound is a non‑invasive imaging test that evaluates the structures in the armpit region – including lymph nodes, blood vessels, and other soft tissues. It is essential for assessing axillary lymphadenopathy (enlarged nodes), detecting lumps or masses, and staging breast cancer. It is safe, radiation‑free, and provides detailed information about the size, shape, morphology, and vascularity of axillary structures.
This examination is commonly performed in conjunction with breast ultrasound or mammography, especially in women with breast cancer, to assess lymph node involvement. It is also useful for evaluating infections, abscesses, or other causes of axillary pain or swelling.
At Amytri, our axillary ultrasounds are performed by experienced consultant radiologists using state‑of‑the‑art high‑frequency linear transducers. We systematically evaluate all axillary lymph node levels, document suspicious features (cortical thickening, loss of fatty hilum, abnormal shape, and vascularity), and provide detailed reports with clinical correlation. Our findings help guide staging, biopsy decisions, and surgical planning.
Axillary lymph nodes are a common site of pathology – from infection to cancer. Ultrasound provides a safe, accurate assessment to guide diagnosis and management.
Ultrasound can detect nodal enlargement, cortical thickening, and loss of hilum – features that distinguish benign reactive nodes from suspicious or malignant nodes.
Axillary ultrasound is crucial for assessing nodal involvement in breast cancer – helping determine stage, prognosis, and the need for sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection.
For patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy, serial axillary ultrasound can monitor nodal response – guiding further treatment decisions.
We perform a systematic examination of the axillary region, using high‑frequency transducers for optimal resolution of lymph nodes and soft tissues.
We evaluate all visible axillary lymph nodes – documenting size (long and short axes), shape (longitudinal/transverse ratio), presence of fatty hilum, cortical thickness, and overall morphology.
We identify features that raise suspicion for malignancy – including round shape (L/T ratio <2), loss of fatty hilum, cortical thickening (>3 mm), focal cortical bulging, and abnormal vascularity (peripheral or chaotic).
We use colour and power Doppler to evaluate blood flow patterns – normal nodes have hilar vascularity; suspicious nodes may show peripheral or disorganised vascularity.
We assess any palpable or visible masses – including cysts, lipomas, abscesses, or accessory breast tissue – characterising their nature and size.
We evaluate the axillary artery and vein for any thrombus, aneurysm, or flow abnormalities (if clinically indicated).
If a suspicious node is identified, we can plan and mark the optimal site for ultrasound‑guided fine‑needle aspiration (FNA) or core needle biopsy.
No special preparation is required. You can eat, drink, and take medications as usual. Wear a loose‑fitting top or singlet to allow access to your armpit area.
You lie on your back with your arm raised above your head (or placed behind your head). The radiologist applies gel to your armpit and uses a small transducer to scan the axillary region. The scan takes 15‑20 minutes and is painless.
The radiologist reviews the images, measures lymph nodes, characterises any abnormalities, and provides a comprehensive report for your referring doctor – often using the Nottingham or other classification for nodal assessment.
We discuss the findings with you (where appropriate) and recommend further steps – which may include biopsy, surveillance, or specialist referral (surgery, oncology).
It is a key investigation for axillary symptoms, breast cancer staging, and lymph node evaluation.
Any new lump in the armpit should be evaluated – ultrasound can identify lymph node enlargement, cysts, or other masses.
Pain may indicate infection, lymphadenopathy, or other pathology – ultrasound helps identify the cause.
Axillary ultrasound is essential for assessing nodal involvement in newly diagnosed breast cancer – guiding biopsy and treatment decisions.
Axillary ultrasound can detect abscesses, hidradenitis suppurativa, or other infectious causes of swelling and pain.
Patients with systemic conditions that cause lymphadenopathy benefit from axillary ultrasound for monitoring and biopsy guidance.
For patients with a history of breast cancer or lymphoma, serial axillary ultrasound monitors for recurrence.
Dr. Abhishek has extensive experience in axillary ultrasound, including lymph node evaluation, breast cancer staging, and biopsy guidance. He is skilled in detecting subtle nodal abnormalities and characterising lesions – providing accurate, actionable information for clinicians and patients.
Axillary ultrasound can be part of a breast cancer work‑up or other serious evaluation – having your partner with you provides support and shared understanding.
We welcome partners to attend the ultrasound. We explain what we are seeing, show you the images on screen, and discuss the findings. Your partner's presence can be helpful for understanding the results and planning next steps together.
It is a non‑invasive imaging test that evaluates the axilla (armpit) – including lymph nodes, blood vessels, and soft tissue – to detect enlargement, masses, or other pathology.
No special preparation is required. You can eat and drink normally. Wear a loose‑fitting top to allow access to your armpit area.
No, the scan is painless. You will feel mild pressure from the transducer on your armpit, but it is not uncomfortable.
Ultrasound can detect suspicious lymph node features (round shape, loss of hilum, cortical thickening, abnormal vascularity) that suggest malignancy. However, biopsy is required for definitive diagnosis.
An axillary ultrasound typically takes 15‑20 minutes.
Yes, a referral from your doctor is recommended. They will use the results to guide your diagnosis and treatment, especially if breast cancer staging is involved.
From your baby's very first heartbeat to your family's lifelong health — we're here with precision, expertise and care. Reserve your appointment in under a minute.