Underarm lymph nodes swollen causes: Swollen lymph nodes in groin: 9 causes

15.08.202324.06.2023 by alexxlab

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Swollen lymph nodes in groin: 9 causes

Swollen lymph nodes are usually a sign of infection. Swollen lymph nodes in the groin can result from viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, including some sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Infections in the feet and some cancers can also affect lymph nodes in the groin.

Lymph nodes are small glands in various places in the body, including the head, neck, armpits, and groin. They are a vital part of the body’s immune system. They trap viruses, bacteria, and other invading microbes. Then, certain white blood cells inside the lymph nodes destroy these invaders.

The lymph nodes in the groin are also called femoral or inguinal lymph nodes.

Most of the time, people cannot see or feel their lymph nodes. However, if the nodes swell, they may be tender and painful. When this occurs, it is usually a sign that the body is fighting an illness or inflammation.

Swollen lymph nodes in the groin may indicate an infection or inflammation near those particular lymph nodes.

In this article, learn about the possible causes of swollen lymph nodes in the groin, as well as when to see a doctor.

Share on PinterestCellulitis, jock itch, and foot injuries may cause swollen lymph nodes in the groin.

Cellulitis is a type of infection that invades the deep layers of skin. There are more than 14 million cases of cellulitis in the United States each year.

The American Academy of Dermatology say that the lower leg or foot is a common site for cellulitis in adults. If the infection occurs in this area, it may cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin.

Any break in the skin can cause cellulitis, which may produce the following symptoms near the site of the injury:

redness
swelling
warmth
tenderness
fever or chills
fatigue

Cellulitis can become severe without treatment. People who have symptoms of cellulitis should seek medical attention.

A person can acquire a sexually transmitted infection (STI) if they have sexual contact with someone else with an infection. STIs, such as gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, and HIV, can cause swollen lymph nodes in the groin.

Symptoms of STIs can vary widely but may include:

pain, swelling, or itching in the genital area
unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
blisters, sores, or warts on the genitals
intermenstrual bleeding
fever, headaches, or fatigue

Many STIs have no symptoms at all, so people should get regular testing.

Jock itch is a fungal infection that often affects the groin, buttocks, and inner thighs. Along with lymph node swelling in the groin, it can cause severe itching and a ring shaped rash.

Jock itch is a symptom of a ringworm infection. Over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders that treat ringworm often clear it up.

If the rash does not go away with antifungal treatment, it is best to see a doctor.

An overgrowth of a fungus called Candida can cause an infection in the vagina or on the penis.

As with other fungal infections in the genital area, this can affect the lymph nodes in the groin. Other symptoms of a yeast infection include:

burning during urination
itching and irritated skin
foul-smelling lumpy white discharge
redness and bumps that may contain pus

Vaginal or penile yeast infections often respond well to antifungal medicines. People should see a doctor for a diagnosis before treating a yeast infection at home if it is the first time they have experienced one.

Cat scratch disease, also called cat scratch fever, is a bacterial infection. A person can get it if an infected cat scratches them and breaks the skin.

Cat scratch disease can also develop if an infected cat licks an open wound on a person’s body.

If this infection occurs on the feet or legs, it may cause swollen lymph nodes in the groin.

Other symptoms of cat scratch disease include:

swelling, pain, or redness near the scratch or wound
round, raised sores containing pus
fever
fatigue
headaches
lack of appetite

Infected cats generally show no signs of illness. Cat scratch disease often goes away over time in people who have a healthy immune system.

It can lead to serious complications in some people, but this is rare.

Bacteria can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder infections, leading the lymph nodes in that area to swell. Some other symptoms include:

frequent urge to urinate
painful urination
burning or stinging feeling in the area
passing little urine

These infections may sometimes require antibiotics. UTIs can lead to more severe infections if a person does not receive treatment.

If a person gets a cut or blister on their foot, bacteria may enter through the skin and cause an infection. This infection can, in turn, cause swelling in the lymph nodes in the groin.

People who have diabetes or neuropathy may be particularly at risk of getting a foot injury without being aware of it. They should check their feet daily for signs of an injury and avoid going barefoot outdoors.

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the feet.

People may get the infection from walking barefoot in moist public areas, such as swimming pools and locker rooms.

As the body is fighting the fungus, it may cause swollen lymph nodes in the groin. However, athlete’s foot is not a common cause of this symptom, so a person with swollen lymph nodes in the groin should consider other causes before assuming that athlete’s foot is responsible.

Common symptoms of athlete’s foot include:

itching and burning between the toes
scaling or peeling of the skin on the feet, especially between the toes
swelling of the feet or toes
cracked skin or blisters on the feet or toes

In rare cases, swollen lymph nodes in the groin can be a sign of certain types of cancer that affect the area.

The types of cancer may include:

testicular cancer
ovarian cancer
uterine cancer
melanoma, if it affects the lower body

These cancers may have very few symptoms at first. If a person notices swollen lymph nodes in their groin without an obvious cause, they should see a doctor for an evaluation.

When an infection, inflammation, injury, or other illness affects the body, lymph nodes may swell as they gather the harmful cells and filter them.

A person may be able to feel swollen lymph nodes by gently pressing on the area. They may be tender or painful.

A swollen lymph node in one area can signal that there is inflammation or an infection in that specific area of the body. Doctors refer to this as localized lymphadenopathy.

For instance, swollen lymph nodes in the neck could be a symptom of a cold or the flu. Swollen lymph nodes in the groin are usually a sign that there is an infection or inflammation in the genitals or lower body, such as the legs or possibly the feet.

When more than one area of lymph nodes swell, this is called generalized lymphadenopathy. It may mean that the person has a body-wide infection, impaired drainage, or an immune system disorder.

Examples include:

lupus
rheumatoid arthritis
mononucleosis (mono)
chickenpox
measles
HIV

People should see a doctor if they have persistently swollen lymph nodes that do not lessen over the course of a few days, or if the lymph nodes are painful or causing discomfort.

Treatment for swollen lymph nodes depends on the cause. For instance, cellulitis or skin infections usually require antibiotics.

Jock itch or athlete’s foot may clear up with antifungal medicines. If there is no clear cause of an infection, a doctor may run tests for other conditions.

After treating the underlying cause, the swollen lymph nodes will go back to their normal size.

Swollen lymph nodes are not a disease. They are a sign that the body is fighting off an infection.

In most cases, it is best to see a doctor to determine the cause of swollen lymph nodes in the groin. The doctor can recommend the necessary treatment or order further testing to help them confirm a diagnosis.

Symptoms, causes, stages, types, and more

Breast cancer is an invasive cancer. The main cause of breast cancer is genetic mutation or damage to a person’s DNA.

Advances in screening and treatment for breast cancer have improved survival rates dramatically. Overall, the rate of breast cancer declined by about 40% between 1989 and 2017.

A 2019 study showed, however, that the rate in the United States may no longer be declining in women aged 20–39 years.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that:

There are more than 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S.
The chance of dying from breast cancer is around 1 in 38 (2.6%).
About 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed by the end of 2021
About 43,600 deaths from breast cancer are likely to occur by the end of 2021

Awareness of the symptoms and the need for screening is key in reducing the risk of mortality.

In rare instances, breast cancer can also affect males. This article will focus on breast cancer in females.

Learn about breast cancer in males here.

The first symptom of breast cancer is usually an area of thickened tissue in the breast or a lump in the breast or an armpit.

Other symptoms include:

armpit or breast pain does not change with the monthly cycle
pitting, like the surface of an orange, or color changes such as redness in the skin of the breast
a rash around or on one nipple
discharge from a nipple, which may contain blood
a sunken or inverted nipple
a change in the size or shape of the breast
peeling, flaking, or scaling of the skin of the breast or nipple

Most breast lumps are not cancerous. However, anyone who notices a breast lump should have it checked by a healthcare professional.

A lump or a mass in the breast is often one of the first signs of breast cancer. In many cases, these lumps are painless. A person may experience pain in the nipple or breast area that appears to be tied to their menstrual cycle.

Pain caused by breast cancer is typically gradual. Anyone who experiences breast pain, especially if it is severe or persistent, should consult a healthcare professional.

After puberty, a female’s breasts are made up of fat, connective tissue, and thousands of lobules. These are tiny glands that can produce milk. Tiny tubes, or ducts, carry the milk toward the nipple.

Breast cancer develops as a result of genetic mutations or damage to DNA. These can be associated with exposure to estrogen, inherited genetic defects, or inherited genes that can cause cancer, such as the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

When a person is healthy, their immune system attacks any abnormal DNA or growths. When a person has cancer, this does not happen.

As a result, cells within breast tissue begin to multiply uncontrollably, and they do not die as usual. This excessive cell growth forms a tumor that deprives surrounding cells of nutrients and energy.

Breast cancer usually starts in the inner lining of the milk ducts or the lobules that supply them with milk. From there, it can spread to other parts of the body.

A doctor determines the stage of cancer according to the size of the tumor and whether it has spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

There are different ways to stage breast cancer. One includes stages 0–4 with subcategories at each stage. Below, we describe each of these main stages. Substages can indicate specific characteristics of a tumor, such as its HER2 receptor status.

Stage 0: This is also called ductal carcinoma in situ. The cancerous cells are only within the ducts and have not spread to surrounding tissues.
Stage 1: At this stage, the tumor measures up to 2 centimeters (cm) across. It has not affected any lymph nodes, or there are small groups of cancer cells in lymph nodes.
Stage 2: The tumor is 2 cm across and has started to spread to nearby nodes, or it is 2–5 cm across and has not spread to the lymph nodes.
Stage 3: The tumor is up to 5 cm across and has spread to several lymph nodes, or the tumor is larger than 5 cm and has spread to a few lymph nodes.
Stage 4: The cancer has spread to distant organs, most often the bones, liver, brain, or lungs.

To discover more evidence-based information and resources for healthy aging, visit our dedicated hub.

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The following factors make developing breast cancer more likely, and some may be preventable.

Age

The risk of breast cancer increases with age. At 20 years old, the chance of developing breast cancer in the next decade is 0.06%. By the age of 70, this figure goes up to 3.84%.

Genetics

A person with certain mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes has a higher chance of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or both. People inherit these genes.

Mutations in the TP53 gene also have links to increased breast cancer risk.

If a close relative has or has had breast cancer, a person’s chance of developing breast cancer increases.

Current guidelines recommend that people receive genetic testing if they have a family history of breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer.

People should also receive this testing, the guidelines state, if there is a history of breast cancer related to BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations in their ancestry. This applies to people, for example, with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry.

History of breast cancer or breast lumps

A person who has had breast cancer is more likely to develop it again than a person with no history of the disease.

Having some types of noncancerous breast lumps increases the risk of developing the cancer later on. Examples include atypical ductal hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ.

People with a history of breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer should ask their doctors about genetic testing.

Dense breast tissue

Dense breast tissue is more likely to be associated with a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Read more about dense breast tissue here.

Estrogen exposure and breastfeeding

Extended exposure to estrogen appears to increase the risk of breast cancer.

This exposure could involve starting periods at an early age or entering menopause late. Between these times, estrogen levels in the body are higher.

Breastfeeding, especially for over 1 year, appears to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. This may be due to the drop in estrogen exposure that follows pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Body weight

Obesity after menopause may contribute to a greater likelihood of developing breast cancer, possibly due to increased estrogen levels. High sugar intake may also be a factor.

Alcohol consumption

Regularly drinking high amounts of alcohol appears to play a role in breast cancer development.

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), studies have consistently found that women who consume alcohol have a higher risk of breast cancer than women who do not. And those who drink moderate to heavy levels have a greater risk than women who drink less.

Radiation exposure

Undergoing radiation treatment for a different cancer may increase the risk of developing breast cancer later in life.

Hormone treatments

Studies have shown that oral contraceptives may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, the NCI reports.

And according to the ACS, studies have found that hormone replacement therapy, specifically estrogen-progesterone therapy, is related to an increased risk of breast cancer.

Race

As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, breast cancer mortality is about 40% higher among Black women than white women.

Other research has found that African American women are more likely to die of breast cancer than any other group.

The reasons for this are likely biological and socioeconomic. For example, according to a 2021 study, Black women may be more susceptible to developing aggressive breast tumors.

Other research points out that factors such as low socioeconomic status also contribute to cancer racial disparities. Having this status makes it difficult for people from marginalized groups to access quality health insurance, which in the U. S., is often tied to a person’s employment.

A 2020 study on the association of insurance status and the detection of early stage breast cancer showed how difficulty accessing healthcare may be part of the reason why people from marginalized groups often receive breast cancer diagnoses at a late stage, when survival, even with treatment, is less likely.

Cosmetic implants and breast cancer survival

The general agreement, based on research, is that silicone breast implants do not increase the risk of breast cancer.

A 2015 meta-analysis of 17 studies that included participants who had undergone cosmetic breast augmentation discovered no increase in the risk of breast cancer associated with the procedure. In fact, the research showed that the incidence among these participants was lower than expected.

In 2021, another study found that women with cosmetic implants have significantly lower rates of breast cancer than those who do not have them.

Meanwhile, a 2013 meta-analysis found that women who received a diagnosis of breast cancer after getting cosmetic breast implants may have a higher risk of dying from the disease.

However, this research did not factor in other variables that may influence breast cancer mortality, such as body mass index, age at diagnosis, or cancer stage at diagnosis. And at least one of the studies in the analysis looked at overall mortality, instead of breast cancer-specific mortality, thereby potentially skewing the results. As such, a person should consider the finding with caution.

There are several types of breast cancer. The most common type is ductal carcinoma, which begins in a milk duct. Another type is lobular carcinoma, which begins in a lobule, one of the tiny glands that produce milk.

“Invasive” breast cancer involves cancerous cells spreading to nearby tissue. It is then more likely that the cancer will spread to other parts of the body.

“Noninvasive” breast cancer remains in its place of origin. These cells may eventually become invasive.

A doctor often diagnoses breast cancer as a result of routine screening or when a person reports symptoms. Below, we describe tests and procedures that can help the doctor make and confirm the diagnosis.

Breast exam

This involves checking the breasts for lumps and other possible indications of cancer.

During the examination, the person may need to sit or stand with their arms in different positions, such as above their head or by their sides.

Imaging tests

Several types of scans can help detect breast cancer, including:

Mammogram: This is a type of X-ray that doctors commonly use during initial breast cancer screening. It produces images that can show lumps or abnormalities. If there is any sign of a potential problem, the doctor usually conducts further testing.

Ultrasound: This scan uses sound waves to help a doctor differentiate between a solid mass and a fluid-filled cyst.

MRI: This combines different images of the breast to help a doctor identify cancer or other abnormalities. A doctor may recommend an MRI as a follow-up to a mammogram or ultrasound. Doctors may also use MRIs to screen people with a higher risk of breast cancer.

Here, learn more about how to prepare for a mammogram.

Biopsy

This involves extracting a sample of tissue and sending it to a laboratory for analysis.

The results show whether the cells are cancerous, and if they are, which type of cancer has developed. The results can even show whether the cancer is hormone-sensitive.

The doctor then stages the cancer to establish:

the size of a tumor
how far it has spread
whether it is invasive

This can provide information about the outlook and the best course of treatment.

There is no way to prevent breast cancer. However, a person can take steps to significantly reduce their risk.

These include:

limiting alcohol consumption, for people who drink
having a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables
getting enough exercise
maintaining a moderate body mass index

A person who is considering using hormone replacement therapy after menopause may wish to discuss this with a healthcare professional.

For people with a high risk of breast cancer, preventive surgery is also an option.

The Breast Cancer Healthline app provides access to an online breast cancer community, where users can connect with others and gain advice and support through group discussions. It also classifies survival rates based on how far cancer has spread beyond the breast tissue.

Breast cancer screening

Expert guidelines about how often to have breast cancer screenings differ.

The American College of Physicians recommends that women aged 40–49 years with an average risk of breast cancer discuss the benefits and risks of regular screenings with a doctor.

Women aged 50–74 who have an average risk, the guidelines say, should have screenings every 2 years. Women aged 75 or older should continue with screenings if their life expectancy is 10 or more years.

The ACS suggests that women with an average risk should be able to choose whether to have yearly scans from the age of 40 onward. Regular annual screening should start at the age of 45, and at the age of 55, a woman should be able to decide whether to start screening every other year, these guidelines state.

The American College of Radiologists recommend screenings every year, starting from 40 years of age.

Despite the variations, most experts recommend at least speaking with a doctor about breast cancer screening from the age of 40 onward.

A survival rate describes how long a person with breast cancer is likely to live after the diagnosis, in comparison with someone who does not have the diagnosis.

The NCI currently estimates that about 90% of females with breast cancer survive for at least 5 years after the diagnosis.

It is important to keep in mind that researchers use survival rates to assess large populations. And in calculating this rate, they exclude the risk of dying from other causes.

A survival rate cannot predict an individual’s outlook. No two people necessarily respond to treatment in the same way.

Find more detailed information about survival rates by cancer stage.

Q:

Which other cancers are common in women?

A:

Other than skin cancer, the cancers that most often affect women include:

breast cancer
lung cancer
colorectal cancer
uterine cancer
melanoma
non-Hodgkin lymphoma
thyroid cancer
pancreatic cancer
kidney cancer
leukemia

Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

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Breast cancer is still a leading cause of cancer death among females. However, the 5-year survival rate is high, and the rate of diagnosis has been largely declining for more than three decades. Having said that, the rates in the U.S. may no longer be declining in women aged 20–39 years.

A person may be able to take steps to prevent breast cancer, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and speaking with their doctor about the best pace of screening, beginning at age 40.

Read the article in Spanish.

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 lymph 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 management 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 : 15/02/2018
Last updated : 15/06/2023