Swollen lymph glands in chest. Swollen Lymph Nodes in Chest: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

27.06.202317.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the main causes of swollen lymph nodes in the chest. How can doctors diagnose swollen lymph nodes in the chest. What treatment options are available for swollen lymph nodes in the chest. When should you seek medical attention for swollen lymph nodes in the chest.

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Understanding Lymph Nodes and Their Function in the Body

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that play a crucial role in our immune system. They are part of the lymphatic system, which helps protect the body from disease-causing organisms, such as bacteria. These nodes act as filters, trapping harmful substances and preventing them from spreading throughout the body.

The lymphatic system consists of a network of vessels, similar to blood vessels, connecting the many different lymph nodes. When the body is fighting an infection or dealing with other health issues, these nodes can swell as they work to filter out harmful materials.

The Role of Chest Lymph Nodes

Chest lymph nodes, also known as mediastinal lymph nodes, are located deep within the chest cavity. Unlike lymph nodes in other parts of the body, such as the neck or armpits, chest lymph nodes are typically not palpable from the outside. They are situated around vital organs, including the lungs and heart, and play a crucial role in monitoring and defending these areas from potential threats.

Common Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Chest

Swollen lymph nodes in the chest, medically termed mediastinal lymphadenopathy, can be indicative of various underlying conditions. While some causes may be benign, others can signal more serious health issues. Here are some of the most common reasons for chest lymph node swelling:

Lung cancer
Lymphoma
Sarcoidosis
Tuberculosis
Other infections (bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic)
Heart failure
Interstitial lung disease

Is cancer a frequent cause of swollen chest lymph nodes. According to a 2019 study involving 1,075 patients who underwent an endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA), cancer was indeed the most common reason, accounting for 61.6% of cases with swollen chest lymph nodes.

Recognizing Symptoms of Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Chest

Identifying swollen lymph nodes in the chest can be challenging, as they are not typically visible or palpable from the outside. However, there are some symptoms that may indicate their presence:

Chest pressure or fullness
Pain or discomfort in the chest area
Difficulty breathing
Persistent cough
Unexplained weight loss
Fever or night sweats
Fatigue

Can swollen chest lymph nodes cause symptoms in other parts of the body. Yes, in some cases, individuals with swollen lymph nodes in the chest may also experience swelling in other areas, such as the armpits, groin, or neck. This can be indicative of a systemic condition affecting multiple lymph node groups.

Diagnostic Techniques for Swollen Chest Lymph Nodes

Given the deep location of chest lymph nodes, specialized diagnostic techniques are necessary to identify and assess their swelling. Here are some common methods used by healthcare professionals:

Imaging scans (CT, MRI, PET)
Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA)
Mediastinoscopy
Blood tests
Biopsy

Why is EBUS-TBNA considered an effective diagnostic tool for swollen chest lymph nodes. EBUS-TBNA is a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to obtain tissue samples from lymph nodes in the chest without the need for surgery. It provides high diagnostic accuracy and helps in determining the cause of lymph node swelling, whether it’s cancer, infection, or other conditions.

Treatment Approaches for Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Chest

The treatment for swollen lymph nodes in the chest depends largely on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Antibiotics for bacterial infections
Antiviral medications for viral infections
Chemotherapy and radiation for cancer
Corticosteroids for inflammatory conditions like sarcoidosis
Immunosuppressants for autoimmune disorders
Watchful waiting for benign cases

How long does it take for swollen chest lymph nodes to return to normal size after treatment. The recovery time can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause and the individual’s overall health. In some cases, such as with minor infections, the swelling may subside within a few weeks. However, for more serious conditions like cancer, the treatment and recovery process may take several months or even longer.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Considerations

While it’s not always possible to prevent swollen lymph nodes in the chest, certain lifestyle choices and preventive measures can help maintain overall lymphatic health:

Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Regular exercise to promote lymphatic circulation
Staying hydrated
Managing stress through relaxation techniques
Avoiding exposure to known carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke
Getting vaccinated against preventable infections

Can lymphatic massage help reduce swollen lymph nodes in the chest. While lymphatic massage can be beneficial for improving lymphatic circulation in general, it’s not typically recommended for swollen lymph nodes in the chest due to their deep location. Moreover, if the swelling is due to a serious condition like cancer, massage could potentially spread harmful cells. Always consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any form of massage or alternative therapy for swollen lymph nodes.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Swollen lymph nodes in the chest often indicate a serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical attention. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

Persistent chest pain or pressure
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Unexplained weight loss
Fever that doesn’t subside
Night sweats
Persistent cough, especially if accompanied by blood

How quickly should you seek medical attention if you suspect swollen lymph nodes in your chest. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially if they persist for more than a couple of weeks or are severe, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for many conditions associated with swollen chest lymph nodes.

Research and Future Directions in Lymph Node Health

Ongoing research in the field of lymphatic health and swollen lymph nodes is paving the way for improved diagnostic techniques and treatment options. Some areas of focus include:

Development of more sensitive imaging techniques for early detection of lymph node abnormalities
Exploration of targeted therapies for lymphoma and other lymph node cancers
Investigation of the role of the lymphatic system in various systemic diseases
Research into immunotherapies that leverage the lymphatic system to fight cancer
Studies on the potential of lymphatic system modulation for treating inflammatory conditions

What potential breakthroughs in lymph node research could revolutionize treatment in the near future. Emerging research in nanomedicine and targeted drug delivery systems shows promise for more effective and less invasive treatments for lymph node disorders. Additionally, advancements in immunotherapy could lead to more personalized and effective treatments for lymphomas and other cancers affecting the lymphatic system.

The Importance of Lymphatic Health Awareness

As research continues to uncover the crucial role of the lymphatic system in overall health, there’s a growing emphasis on lymphatic health awareness. Understanding the function of lymph nodes, including those in the chest, can help individuals recognize potential issues early and seek appropriate medical care.

Promoting lymphatic health through lifestyle choices, regular check-ups, and awareness of potential symptoms can contribute to better overall health outcomes. As we continue to learn more about the intricate workings of the lymphatic system, we may discover new ways to support and maintain its optimal function, potentially preventing or mitigating a range of health issues.

In conclusion, while swollen lymph nodes in the chest can be a cause for concern, they are also a testament to the body’s sophisticated defense mechanisms. By staying informed about lymphatic health and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can take proactive steps towards maintaining a healthy lymphatic system and addressing any issues that may arise.

Swollen lymph nodes in chest: Symptoms, causes, and more

Usually, chest lymph nodes are too deep in the chest for a person to feel them. In most cases, swollen lymph nodes in the chest appear on imaging scans. Swelling can indicate an underlying condition.

The lymph nodes sometimes swell when fighting an infection. Mediastinal lymphadenopathy is the medical term for swollen lymph nodes in the chest.

The lymph nodes are an important part of the lymphatic system, which helps protect the body from disease-causing organisms, such as bacteria.

Along the collarbone, it may be possible for a person to feel swollen lymph nodes. These lymph nodes may swell when there is an infection, especially in nearby areas such as the breasts or throat.

Swollen lymph nodes can signal a serious underlying condition, such as cancer or an infection. Lymph nodes can also swell for no apparent reason.

In this article, we look at the possible causes of swollen lymph nodes in the chest and their treatments.

The lymphatic system is part of the immune system, and it helps filter out harmful materials, such as infections or cancer cells. It includes a network of vessels, similar to blood vessels, connecting the many different lymph nodes.

These small nodes sometimes swell when the body is filtering out something harmful. They can also swell for no apparent reason, either because of chronic health issues or due to lymph node diseases, such as Kikuchi disease.

Swollen lymph nodes may occur in a single location or throughout the body. The site of the swelling often provides clues to the source of the problem.

For example, a person with a swollen lymph node in the neck might have a tooth abscess or strep throat.

Swollen lymph nodes in the chest often mean a person has a serious underlying medical condition. Some potential causes include:

Lung cancer: Swelling in the lymph nodes surrounding the lungs and in the chest may mean that a person has lung cancer or that lung cancer is spreading to other areas of the body.
Lymphoma: Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymph nodes. It can affect lymph nodes anywhere in the body and may begin in the chest or spread to the chest from other lymph nodes.
Sarcoidosis: Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can damage the lungs. A 2019 study found that it was one of the most common noncancerous reasons for swollen lymph nodes in the chest.
Tuberculosis: Tuberculosis is a serious infection that affects the lungs and may spread elsewhere in the body. It can cause swollen lymph nodes.
Other infections: Other infections, especially those that affect the lungs, may cause swollen lymph nodes. Examples include bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections, such as pneumonia, HIV, histoplasmosis, and toxoplasmosis, respectively. However, mononucleosis, a viral infection, rarely causes the lymph nodes in the chest to swell.
Other causes: Other serious health issues, such as heart failure or interstitial lung disease, can sometimes cause swollen chest lymph nodes.

In a 2019 study, of the 1,075 people who underwent an endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) to diagnose swollen chest lymph nodes, cancer was the most common reason for the swollen chest lymph nodes, with 61.6% having some form of this disease.

Except for the lymph nodes above the collarbone, the lymph nodes in the chest are so deep that a person cannot feel them.

Most are located around organs and behind bones or other large structures. Many are behind the breastbone in the pleural space, which is the tissue lining the chest and surrounding the lungs.

Others surround the main veins and arteries of the heart. For example, the para-aortic lymph nodes lie on the front and the back of the ascending aorta and aortic arch.

As it is not possible to feel the lymph nodes deep in the chest by pushing on the skin, a person will require an imaging scan to determine whether they are swollen.

It is not possible to feel the mediastinal lymph nodes, which are deep in the chest. Other chest lymph nodes are also typically too deep to feel. Doctors usually only notice swelling in these lymph nodes on an imaging scan.

However, a person may feel some lymph nodes around the chest, such as the lymph nodes above the collarbone.

Swollen chest lymph nodes can cause symptoms such as chest pressure and fullness, so a doctor may suspect that either the lymph nodes are swollen or a person has an underlying disease.

People with swollen lymph nodes in the chest may also experience swollen lymph nodes elsewhere, such as in the armpits, groin, or neck.

People with swollen lymph nodes in the chest might not notice any symptoms. However, the swollen lymph nodes sometimes push on organs or other structures, which may cause pain.

An underlying illness can cause swollen lymph nodes along with other symptoms such as:

feeling sick or weak
fever
cough or trouble breathing
swollen lymph nodes elsewhere in the body
unexplained weight loss
night sweats
pressure in the chest

Lymphoma is a cancer in the lymphatic system or lymph nodes. It can begin in the lymph nodes of the chest or travel to these lymph nodes from other parts of the lymphatic system.

Other cancers, such as lung cancer, may also spread, affecting nearby lymph nodes.

Although a biopsy of the lymph nodes is the only way to diagnose cancer, a doctor may also recommend blood work and imaging scans to evaluate the source of the swollen chest lymph nodes.

The type of cancer a person has, where it began, and whether it has spread to other areas help determine the outlook. For instance, the overall 5-year relative survival rate for non-Hodgkin lymphoma is 72%.

The treatment for swollen chest lymph nodes depends on the cause. Some options include:

Infection treatment: Antibiotics can treat many infections, including tuberculosis. Fungal infections may require antifungal treatment, while some infections, such as viral pneumonia, respond well to supportive therapy. Supportive therapy means that a doctor monitors the person and treats their symptoms, such as with IV fluids and observation in the hospital.
Cancer treatment: The right cancer treatment depends on the cancer, but usually includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or both. A surgeon may remove the cancerous lymph nodes or recommend surgery to remove cancer in other areas of the body.
Immunosuppressive therapy: Treatment for an immune-mediated disease such as sarcoidosis includes corticosteroids and immune therapy.
Medication: As some medications can cause lymph nodes to swell, a doctor may recommend switching medications.

Finding swollen chest lymph nodes can be scary, especially if they accompany other symptoms. A doctor will perform other tests to determine the reason for the swelling and offer advice about treatment options.

Even a very serious diagnosis, such as cancer, often responds well to treatment, especially in the early stages. Furthermore, antibiotics can often completely cure infections, such as tuberculosis.

People who experience chest pain or pressure, breathing difficulties, or other symptoms of swollen chest lymph nodes should see a doctor as quickly as possible.

The doctor will likely ask for a log of all of the symptoms a person experiences, including when the symptoms first appeared. They will also ask the person about their medical history.

Swollen lymph nodes in chest: Symptoms, causes, and more

Usually, chest lymph nodes are too deep in the chest for a person to feel them. In most cases, swollen lymph nodes in the chest appear on imaging scans. Swelling can indicate an underlying condition.

The lymph nodes sometimes swell when fighting an infection. Mediastinal lymphadenopathy is the medical term for swollen lymph nodes in the chest.

The lymph nodes are an important part of the lymphatic system, which helps protect the body from disease-causing organisms, such as bacteria.

Along the collarbone, it may be possible for a person to feel swollen lymph nodes. These lymph nodes may swell when there is an infection, especially in nearby areas such as the breasts or throat.

Swollen lymph nodes can signal a serious underlying condition, such as cancer or an infection. Lymph nodes can also swell for no apparent reason.

In this article, we look at the possible causes of swollen lymph nodes in the chest and their treatments.

Swollen lymph nodes may occur in a single location or throughout the body. The site of the swelling often provides clues to the source of the problem.

For example, a person with a swollen lymph node in the neck might have a tooth abscess or strep throat.

Swollen lymph nodes in the chest often mean a person has a serious underlying medical condition. Some potential causes include:

Lung cancer: Swelling in the lymph nodes surrounding the lungs and in the chest may mean that a person has lung cancer or that lung cancer is spreading to other areas of the body.
Lymphoma: Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymph nodes. It can affect lymph nodes anywhere in the body and may begin in the chest or spread to the chest from other lymph nodes.
Sarcoidosis: Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can damage the lungs. A 2019 study found that it was one of the most common noncancerous reasons for swollen lymph nodes in the chest.
Tuberculosis: Tuberculosis is a serious infection that affects the lungs and may spread elsewhere in the body. It can cause swollen lymph nodes.
Other infections: Other infections, especially those that affect the lungs, may cause swollen lymph nodes. Examples include bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections, such as pneumonia, HIV, histoplasmosis, and toxoplasmosis, respectively. However, mononucleosis, a viral infection, rarely causes the lymph nodes in the chest to swell.
Other causes: Other serious health issues, such as heart failure or interstitial lung disease, can sometimes cause swollen chest lymph nodes.

Except for the lymph nodes above the collarbone, the lymph nodes in the chest are so deep that a person cannot feel them.

Most are located around organs and behind bones or other large structures. Many are behind the breastbone in the pleural space, which is the tissue lining the chest and surrounding the lungs.

Others surround the main veins and arteries of the heart. For example, the para-aortic lymph nodes lie on the front and the back of the ascending aorta and aortic arch.

As it is not possible to feel the lymph nodes deep in the chest by pushing on the skin, a person will require an imaging scan to determine whether they are swollen.

However, a person may feel some lymph nodes around the chest, such as the lymph nodes above the collarbone.

Swollen chest lymph nodes can cause symptoms such as chest pressure and fullness, so a doctor may suspect that either the lymph nodes are swollen or a person has an underlying disease.

People with swollen lymph nodes in the chest may also experience swollen lymph nodes elsewhere, such as in the armpits, groin, or neck.

People with swollen lymph nodes in the chest might not notice any symptoms. However, the swollen lymph nodes sometimes push on organs or other structures, which may cause pain.

An underlying illness can cause swollen lymph nodes along with other symptoms such as:

feeling sick or weak
fever
cough or trouble breathing
swollen lymph nodes elsewhere in the body
unexplained weight loss
night sweats
pressure in the chest

Lymphoma is a cancer in the lymphatic system or lymph nodes. It can begin in the lymph nodes of the chest or travel to these lymph nodes from other parts of the lymphatic system.

Other cancers, such as lung cancer, may also spread, affecting nearby lymph nodes.

Although a biopsy of the lymph nodes is the only way to diagnose cancer, a doctor may also recommend blood work and imaging scans to evaluate the source of the swollen chest lymph nodes.

The treatment for swollen chest lymph nodes depends on the cause. Some options include:

Infection treatment: Antibiotics can treat many infections, including tuberculosis. Fungal infections may require antifungal treatment, while some infections, such as viral pneumonia, respond well to supportive therapy. Supportive therapy means that a doctor monitors the person and treats their symptoms, such as with IV fluids and observation in the hospital.
Cancer treatment: The right cancer treatment depends on the cancer, but usually includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or both. A surgeon may remove the cancerous lymph nodes or recommend surgery to remove cancer in other areas of the body.
Immunosuppressive therapy: Treatment for an immune-mediated disease such as sarcoidosis includes corticosteroids and immune therapy.
Medication: As some medications can cause lymph nodes to swell, a doctor may recommend switching medications.

Even a very serious diagnosis, such as cancer, often responds well to treatment, especially in the early stages. Furthermore, antibiotics can often completely cure infections, such as tuberculosis.

People who experience chest pain or pressure, breathing difficulties, or other symptoms of swollen chest lymph nodes should see a doctor as quickly as possible.

The doctor will likely ask for a log of all of the symptoms a person experiences, including when the symptoms first appeared. They will also ask the person about their medical history.

symptoms, causes, classification, what to do with inflammation of the lymph nodes

This disease is treated by Therapist

The information provided on this page should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. If you suspect a disease, you should seek help from a qualified specialist. Only your doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

Article content:

What is the lymphatic system
Lymph node functions
What is lymphadenitis
Causes
Disease classification
Symptoms
Routes of infection
Possible complications
When to see a doctor
Diagnostics
Methods of treatment
Disease prognosis and prevention

What is inflammation of the lymph nodes?

The lymphatic system ensures the normal functioning of the immune system, internal organs and tissues. One of the most common diseases of the lymphatic system is lymphadenitis of the lymph nodes. The disease has a different etiology, symptoms and degree of danger to health. In the article we will talk about how to recognize the pathology and what methods of treatment exist.

What is the lymphatic system

The lymphatic system is a network of lymphatic vessels and nodes. These vessels transport a special liquid – lymph. It is responsible for the transport of proteins, salts and metabolites into the blood.

Lymph nodes act as a filter. They purify the lymph from pathogenic microorganisms and foreign substances, due to which purified and safe lymphatic fluid enters the bloodstream. Source:
The role of lymph nodes in human life. Okunyaka O.M., Tumasyan T.I. Bulletin of science. 2019. №3. pp.60-62.

The lymphatic system performs three main functions:

Participates in immune defense. Together with the flow of lymph, pathogenic microorganisms enter the lymph nodes, where they are recognized and destroyed.
Maintains proper fluid levels in tissues. With an excessive amount of fluid, the lymphatic vessels “drain” organs and tissues.
Produces fat metabolism. Lymphatic vessels transport lipids, which are involved in almost all metabolic processes.

Functions of the lymph nodes

There are about 500 lymph nodes in the human body. They play the role of a barrier and a pump, perform several important functions:

Hematopoietic. Lymph nodes are involved in the development of white blood cells – lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are cells of the immune system responsible for fighting various infections and diseases.
Drainage, or transport. Lymph nodes play an important role in the transport of lymph, which enters the lymphatic vessels from the intercellular spaces of tissues. Due to this, exudate and metabolic products are utilized from the tissues.
Barrier. Lymph nodes serve as a barrier to infected cells and microorganisms, preventing them from spreading throughout the body. They can also form antibodies that help neutralize and destroy infectious agents.

What is lymphadenitis

Lymphadenitis is an inflammation of the lymph nodes. In most cases, this is not an independent disease, but a complication of the primary pathology. It is most often a sign of a bacterial, viral, fungal, or protozoal infection. Source:
Lymphadenopathy. Melikyan A.L., Egorova E.K., Kovrigina A.M. Clinical guidelines. 2018. p.5-30. Therefore, to find the cause of the inflammatory process, complex diagnostics are needed.

Depending on the etiology, one or more lymph nodes may become inflamed. With lymphadenitis, the following types of lymph nodes are usually affected:

cervical;
elbow;
submandibular;
popliteal;
inguinal;
axillary.

In lymphadenitis, the lymph node becomes enlarged and painful. This is due to an increase in the number of lymphocytes and other cells of the immune system that collect inside it. If an infectious agent has entered the lymph node and caused the formation of an abscess or abscess, purulent inflammation may develop.

In the absence of timely treatment, lymphadenitis provokes the development of dangerous complications: the spread of infection to other tissues and organs, the formation of fistulas, sepsis. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor at the first sign of illness.

Causes

Most common causes:

Infections. In most cases, inflammation in the area of the lymph node occurs precisely against the background of infection: tonsillitis, scarlet fever, stomatitis, SARS, influenza, tuberculosis, brucellosis, chicken pox, etc.
Injuries and operations. Any injury, surgery and other damage to the lymph node can cause inflammation.
Allergic reactions. Some allergens activate a cascade of inflammatory responses.
Oncological diseases. Lymphadenitis sometimes becomes one of the signs of malignant tumors of the lymphatic system, especially lymphoma.
Autoimmune diseases. Lymph node inflammation can accompany systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.

In some cases, it is not possible to determine the etiology of inflammation of the lymph node. Then a diagnosis of “lymphadenitis, unspecified” is established.

Clinical guidelines of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation offer several classifications of lymphadenitis.

Origin:

Primary. Occurs when an infection or other cause of inflammation occurs directly in the lymph node. This most commonly occurs when bacteria or other pathogens enter the body through a skin wound, or when certain viruses, such as the Epstein-Barr virus, infect the lymphatic system.
Secondary. Occurs when an infection or other cause of inflammation is localized not in the lymph node itself, but elsewhere in the body. In this case, the inflammatory process spreads from the primary focus to the lymph nodes through the lymphatic vessels. For example, secondary lymphadenitis can occur with an infection of the pharynx or teeth, as well as in the presence of cancer or blood diseases.

Intensity and duration of inflammation:

Acute. It is characterized by an abrupt onset, rapid progression, and an acute inflammatory response. Usually acute lymphadenitis is accompanied by pain, swelling, redness of the skin, fever and other signs of inflammation. Source:
Treatment of chronic tonsillitis and acute lymphadenitis. Pavlova K.V. Medicines and rational pharmacotherapy. 2022. No. 5-2. pp. 90-91.
Chronic. It is characterized by a sluggish long course and a low intensity of the inflammatory process. Most often it develops against the background of untreated acute lymphadenitis. The chronic form is characterized by two periods: exacerbation and remission. In the first case, clinical manifestations are pronounced, in the second – weakly or completely absent, an imaginary recovery occurs.
Recurrent. It is characterized by periodic exacerbations of inflammation after a temporary improvement. Usually, relapses occur in the presence of a chronic infectious or inflammatory process in the body.

By the nature of inflammation:

Purulent. It is characterized by the formation of pus inside the lymph node. It occurs as a result of an infection caused by bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms. As a rule, purulent lymphadenitis is accompanied by severe pain, swelling, redness of the skin and fever.
Serous. It differs in the formation of serous fluid inside the affected lymph node, and the inflammatory process does not go beyond its capsule. Often found in children.

Localization:

submandibular – usually occurs against the background of diseases of the oral cavity, teeth or pharynx;
axillary – associated with infectious or oncological diseases of the breast;
inguinal – occurs against the background of skin infections and skin lesions;
cervical – develops when the pharynx, mouth, nose or ears are affected. Source:
Diagnosis and treatment of cervical lymphadenitis. Skorlyakov V.V., Babiev V.F., Keshchyan S.S., Stagnieva I.V., Boyko N.V. Young scientist. 2017. No. 16. pp. 75-78;
parotid – caused by infectious diseases of the ear or mouth;
occipital – occurs against the background of pathologies of the skin or upper respiratory tract.

Symptoms

Symptoms of lymphadenitis depend on its type, location and cause. The most common signs of inflammation of the lymph node:

swelling and tenderness of the affected lymph node;
redness of the skin in the affected area;
general weakness, fatigue and fever;
pain and discomfort when touching an affected lymph node;
headache;
sometimes – nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite;
excessive sweating, especially at night;
discoloration and texture of the skin in the area of an inflamed lymph node;
appearance of spots on the skin or other rashes.

Ways of infection

Primary cause of secondary lymphadenitis can be:

trophic ulcer;
caries;
otitis;
influenza;
tonsillitis;
angina;
herpes;
tumor;
tuberculosis and more.

Lymphadenitis sometimes develops due to damage to the skin: scratches, wounds or insect bites, which can become the entry gate for bacteria.

Possible complications

Many people don’t even realize the danger of lymphadenitis. Without timely treatment, the disease leads to various, including dangerous consequences. Most often, the following complications develop:

abscess – a limited accumulation of pus in the tissues, surrounded by a membrane;
sepsis is a severe infectious disease in which the infection spreads throughout the body through the bloodstream;
compression of surrounding tissues – enlarged lymph nodes cause discomfort and put pressure on neighboring tissues;
thrombophlebitis – inflammation of the venous wall with the formation of blood clots that can clog the lumen of the vein;
fistula – the formation of a pathological channel as a result of the accumulation of purulent fluid.

When to see a doctor

Lymphadenitis is diagnosed and treated by a vascular surgeon. It is necessary to consult a doctor at the first signs of the disease. The specialist will prescribe a diagnosis to identify the cause of inflammation and tell the patient what to do. Timely access to a doctor prevents the development of dangerous complications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lymphadenitis is aimed at finding the cause of the inflammatory process, assessing the current state of the lymph node and the body as a whole. For this, a comprehensive examination is used:

Inspection. The doctor examines the skin at the site of the affected lymph node, evaluates its size, shape, texture, temperature and sensitivity of the skin.
General and biochemical blood test. Analyzes confirm the inflammatory and infectious process.
Biopsy. Taking a sample of a lymph node for histological examination allows you to determine the cellular composition of the tissue and differentiate the tumor. Source:
Differential diagnosis of bacterial and viral lymphadenitis in children. Antonova S.S., Botvin’eva V.V., Sitnikov I.G. VSP. 2008. No. 3. pp.76-78.
ultrasound. Ultrasound examination helps to determine the size and structure of the lymph node, as well as to identify the neoplasm.
CT and MRI. The procedures are used for layer-by-layer study of the lymph node and surrounding soft tissues.
Culture study. If lymphadenitis is caused by a bacterial infection, a bacterial culture is performed to determine the type of bacteria and select the most effective antibiotic.

Methods of treatment

The doctor chooses the method of treatment individually for each clinical case. It depends on the etiology of inflammation, the current state of the patient and associated complications. In most cases, conservative therapy is used, including medication, including:

antibiotics if there is a bacterial infection;
antiviral drugs – in the presence of a viral infection;
antifungals – in the presence of a fungal infection;
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – for the relief of inflammation and pain.

In addition, physiotherapy, compresses and massage are used. In the presence of abscesses, surgical intervention is indicated – removal of purulent contents and sanitation of the affected tissues.

Prognosis and prevention of the disease

With timely visit to the doctor, lymphadenitis of the lymph node has a favorable prognosis. Early initiation of treatment allows you to achieve complete recovery, prevent the development of complications and the transition of the disease to a chronic form.

Due to the lack of a single etiology, there is no specific prevention of lymphadenitis. The following recommendations will help prevent infection:

Maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after handling animals and visiting public places.
Minimize contact with infected patients and visits to crowded places. If there is a sick person in the family, it is necessary to limit contact with him.
Using only your own hygiene items. Do not use other people’s towels, razors, toothbrushes, etc.
Strengthening immunity: giving up bad habits, maintaining physical activity, proper nutrition and regular walks in the fresh air.
Timely treatment of diseases. When the first symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor and do not self-medicate.
Vaccination. Timely vaccination helps prevent infections that can cause lymphadenitis. You need to be vaccinated both in childhood and in adulthood.

Differential diagnosis of bacterial and viral lymphadenitis in children. Antonova S.S., Botvin’eva V.V., Sitnikov I.G. VSP. 2008. No. 3. pp.76-78
The role of lymph nodes in human life. Okunyaka O.M., Tumasyan T.I. Bulletin of science. 2019. №3. p.60-62
Diagnosis and treatment of cervical lymphadenitis. Skorlyakov V.V., Babiev V.F., Keshchyan S.S., Stagnieva I.V., Boyko N.V. Young scientist. 2017. No. 16. p.75-78
Treatment of chronic tonsillitis and acute lymphadenitis. Pavlova K.V. Medicines and rational pharmacotherapy. 2022. No. 5-2. p.90-91
Lymphadenopathy. Melikyan A.L., Egorova E.K., Kovrigina A.M. Clinical guidelines. 2018. p.5-30

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Article published : 2/15/2018
Last updated : 6/15/2023