This complication occurs when fluid collected at the site of an axillary dissection becomes infected. The infected fluid collection is called an abscess.
Abscesses generally cause the patient to feel ill and have a fever.
The axillary wound will become red, tender, and warm to the touch. It may leak cloudy fluid or pus. If the drain is still in place, the fluid in the drain may become thick and cloudy. The patient will frequently feel a tender lump under her arm. Abscesses require surgical drainage.