COVID-19 Vaccination-Associated Axillary Adenopathy: Imaging Findings and Follow-Up Recommendations in 23 Women

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2021 Oct;217(4):857-858. doi: 10.2214/AJR.21.25651. Epub 2021 Feb 24.

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to report on 23 women with evidence of axillary adenopathy at breast imaging after recent COVID-19 vaccination. A total of 13% of patients had symptoms (axillary lump), 43% were undergoing screening, and 43% were undergoing diagnostic imaging for other reasons. BI-RADS category 2 was assigned in one case, BI-RADS 3 in 21 (ultrasound in 4-24 weeks), and BI-RADS 4 in one. Radiologist familiarity and evidence-based guidelines are needed to avoid follow-up imaging and biopsies for reactive adenopathy after COVID-19 vaccination.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Axilla
  • COVID-19 / prevention & control*
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / adverse effects*
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Incidental Findings
  • Lymphadenopathy / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lymphadenopathy / etiology*
  • Mammography / methods*
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Ultrasonography, Mammary / methods*

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines