Armpit (Axilla) Ultrasound, Cardiff & South Wales
Self-refer. Consultant-led. Immediate results explained at your appointment.
armpit ultrasound
What's included for £260
- ✓Consultant Radiologist scan — results explained immediately
- ✓Written report within 24-48 hours
- ✓Digital scan images
- ✓Onward referral if needed
- ✓No GP referral required
The axilla
Detailed scan of the armpit, primarily to assess lymph nodes and exclude worrying causes.
Lymph nodes
Number, size, shape, internal architecture.
Lymph node patterns
Reactive vs suspicious features.
Cysts
Sebaceous, epidermoid cysts.
Lipomas
Common benign fatty lumps.
Hidradenitis
Sweat gland inflammation.
Vascular structures
Axillary artery/vein patency.
Pectoral muscles
Tears or masses.
Breast tissue (tail)
Axillary tail of breast — refer to breast clinic if abnormal.
Reasons to book an armpit scan
What we can identify
Most armpit lumps are reactive lymph nodes (response to infection) or benign cysts. Ultrasound rapidly distinguishes these from worrying features.
Reactive lymph nodes
Most common — soft, oval, normal hilum.
Suspicious lymph nodes
Rounded, lost hilum, abnormal vessels — needs further work-up.
Sebaceous & epidermoid cysts
Classic appearance.
Hidradenitis suppurativa
Multiple cyst-like collections in skin.
Lipoma
Soft, fatty lump.
Accessory breast tissue
Common, benign, can swell with periods.
If we suspect a breast-related cause, urgent referral to a specialist breast clinic. We do not scan breast tissue directly.
Preparation
How to prepare
No deodorant or talc on the day — aluminium particles affect ultrasound conduction.
A same-sex chaperone is always available if you'd prefer one in the room.
Your appointment, step by step
Arrive
Free parking at Penarth. 5-minute walk from Penarth railway station.
Meet your consultant
Brief chat about your symptoms and history. Ask any questions.
The scan (20-30 mins)
Lie on your back, warm gel applied to your abdomen. Consultant explains findings as they scan.
Immediate results
Your consultant explains the findings as they scan and again at the end — you leave knowing what's going on. Written report follows within 24-48 hours.
Had been waiting ages on the NHS to get a scan… so when I saw this service available on the high street I was surprised. Scan was organised for the same week, totally worth it. Actually got a diagnosis for once. Dr Junaid was very thorough and explained everything.
Transparent, all-inclusive
One simple price for a single-area scan. Combine with other scans in the same appointment for better value.
Armpit (Axilla) Ultrasound
- ✓Immediate results explained & written report in 24-48 hrs
- ✓Same-week appointment
- ✓No GP referral required
Bundle with another area
- ✓Two body areas in one appointment
- ✓Common combos available at booking
- ✓Save £160 vs two separate scans
All prices include consultation, scan, written report, digital images and any onward referral if required.
See what an abdomen ultrasound involves
Our patient information video walks you through how to prepare, what happens during the scan and what to expect afterwards. About 2 minutes long.
The playlist includes videos for Abdomen, Pelvis, Testicular, Neck, Lump, DVT, Groin and Steroid injections.
Our Penarth clinic
Patients travel to us from Cardiff, Newport, Bridgend, Barry, Caerphilly, Swansea and the Vale.
Common questions about armpit (axilla) ultrasound
How much does a private armpit ultrasound cost?
£260 for one side, £360 for both.
My lymph nodes are big — is it cancer?
Most lymph node enlargement is reactive (infection, recent vaccination, eczema). Ultrasound looks at the SHAPE and structure to distinguish reactive from suspicious.
What if a lymph node looks suspicious?
We arrange urgent onward referral — usually for biopsy. Don't delay if a node has been there over 4-6 weeks.
How long does the scan take?
About 20-30 minutes.
Do I need a referral?
No — self-refer.
How quickly can I be seen?
Most appointments within 48-72 hours.
What if my lump turns out to be in the breast?
We do not scan breast tissue at Acorn Private Clinic. If we suspect the lump is breast-related, you'll need a specialist breast clinic — we can advise.
Is ultrasound safe?
Yes — no radiation.
Will I get a written report?
Yes — immediate verbal results plus written report in 24-48 hours.
Can the scan diagnose hidradenitis?
Yes — ultrasound shows the deep cysts and tracts typical of hidradenitis suppurativa, which is often missed clinically.
Health insurance covers this?
Most UK insurers cover diagnostic axillary ultrasound when clinically indicated.
Where do I go?
Acorn Private Clinic at Penarth (CF64 2AD).
Get the answers you need.
Self-refer for a private abdomen ultrasound — consultant-led, same-week, with immediate results explained at your appointment and a written report within 24-48 hours. £260 all-inclusive.