Summary about Disease
Lymphadenopathy, also known as lymph node enlargement or swollen glands, refers to the swelling of lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures located throughout the body that filter lymph fluid, which contains immune cells. Enlargement typically occurs as a response to infection, inflammation, or, less commonly, cancer. The location of the enlarged lymph nodes can often provide clues to the underlying cause.
Symptoms
Visible or palpable swelling of lymph nodes (often in the neck, armpits, or groin).
Tenderness or pain in the area of the swollen lymph nodes.
Possible redness or warmth of the skin over the swollen lymph node.
Symptoms related to the underlying cause, such as fever, night sweats, fatigue, weight loss, sore throat, runny nose, cough, or skin lesions.
Causes
Infections: Viral (e.g., common cold, influenza, mononucleosis, HIV), bacterial (e.g., strep throat, skin infections), fungal, or parasitic infections are common causes.
Inflammation: Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus), sarcoidosis.
Cancer: Lymphoma, leukemia, metastatic cancer from other sites.
Other: Reactions to medications, rare diseases.
Medicine Used
The treatment for lymphadenopathy depends on the underlying cause.
Infections: Antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for viral infections, antifungals for fungal infections.
Inflammation: Anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., NSAIDs, corticosteroids), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for autoimmune conditions.
Cancer: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, surgery.
Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen).
Is Communicable
Lymphadenopathy itself is not communicable. However, if the underlying cause is an infection (e.g., a viral or bacterial infection), that infection may be communicable.
Precautions
Precautions depend on the underlying cause of the lymphadenopathy.
If due to infection: Practice good hygiene (handwashing), avoid close contact with others while contagious, cover coughs and sneezes.
General: Maintain a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep) to support immune function.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of lymphadenopathy depends on the underlying cause and the effectiveness of treatment. Lymph node swelling due to a mild infection may resolve within a few days to weeks. Chronic conditions may cause persistent or recurrent lymphadenopathy.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: Examination of the swollen lymph nodes and surrounding areas.
Medical history: Review of symptoms, past medical conditions, and medications.
Blood tests: Complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and specific tests to detect infections or autoimmune disorders.
Imaging studies: Chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize lymph nodes and other structures.
Lymph node biopsy: Removal of a lymph node or a sample of tissue for microscopic examination to identify the cause of the swelling.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly depending on the underlying cause.
Acute infections: Rapid onset of swelling (over a few days) along with other symptoms of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat).
Chronic conditions: Gradual onset of swelling, often with other systemic symptoms (e.g., fatigue, weight loss).
Cancer: Swelling may be persistent and progressive, often without pain in the early stages.
Important Considerations
Persistent, unexplained lymphadenopathy, especially if associated with other symptoms (e.g., fever, night sweats, weight loss), should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Enlarged lymph nodes that are hard, fixed, and non-tender are more concerning for malignancy.
Lymphadenopathy in children has different common causes than in adults, and requires careful evaluation.
Self-treating lymphadenopathy without determining the underlying cause can be dangerous.