Where are lymph nodes located in the body. How does the lymph system work. What causes lymph nodes to swell. How does cancer spread to lymph nodes. How is cancer detected in lymph nodes.

The Lymphatic System: A Crucial Component of Immune Defense

The lymphatic system plays a vital role in our body’s immune defense mechanism. It consists of a network of vessels and nodes that work together to filter out harmful substances and maintain fluid balance. But how exactly does this intricate system function?

The lymph system is composed of lymph vessels, which are similar to blood vessels but carry a clear fluid called lymph instead of blood. This fluid contains white blood cells, crucial for fighting infections. Lymph vessels collect excess fluid from tissues throughout the body and transport it back to the bloodstream, preventing swelling and maintaining proper fluid balance.

Key Components of the Lymphatic System

• Lymph vessels
• Lymph nodes
• Lymph fluid
• White blood cells

Why is the lymphatic system so important? It serves as a filtration system, removing harmful substances from our bodies and helping to prevent infections and diseases. Without this crucial system, our bodies would be unable to effectively fight off pathogens and maintain proper fluid balance.

Lymph Nodes: The Body’s Natural Filtration Centers

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures scattered throughout the body that act as filters for the lymphatic system. They play a crucial role in trapping and destroying harmful substances, including cancer cells and infectious agents. But where exactly are these important structures located?

Common Locations of Lymph Nodes

• Neck
• Armpit
• Chest
• Abdomen
• Groin

Lymph nodes contain immune cells that help fight infections by attacking and destroying germs carried in the lymph fluid. How many lymph nodes are there in the human body? While the exact number varies, there are hundreds of lymph nodes distributed throughout various regions.

Each lymph node filters the fluid and substances collected by the vessels leading to it. For example, lymph fluid from the fingers travels towards the chest, passing through lymph nodes at the elbow or under the arm. Similarly, fluid from the head, scalp, and face flows through lymph nodes in the neck.

Swollen Lymph Nodes: Indicators of Underlying Issues

Swollen lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenopathy, can be a sign that something is amiss in the body. When lymph nodes enlarge, it often indicates that they are working harder than usual to filter out harmful substances. But what causes lymph nodes to swell?

Common Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

1. Infections (bacterial or viral)
2. Injuries
3. Cancer
4. Certain medications
5. Immune system disorders

Is swollen lymph node always a cause for concern? Not necessarily. In many cases, swollen lymph nodes are a sign that your immune system is functioning properly to fight off an infection. However, persistent or widespread swelling may warrant further investigation by a healthcare professional.

When lymph nodes swell, they often do so in specific areas related to the underlying issue. For instance, swollen lymph nodes near the ear, accompanied by ear pain and fever, might indicate an ear infection or cold. In most cases, only one area of nodes swells at a time.

Generalized Lymphadenopathy: When Multiple Lymph Node Regions Are Affected

While localized lymph node swelling is more common, there are instances where multiple areas of lymph nodes swell simultaneously. This condition is known as generalized lymphadenopathy. But what causes this widespread lymph node enlargement?

Potential Causes of Generalized Lymphadenopathy

• Systemic infections (e.g., strep throat, chickenpox)
• Certain medications
• Immune system diseases
• Cancer (e.g., lymphoma, leukemia)

When generalized lymphadenopathy occurs, it’s crucial to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis. Healthcare providers will conduct a thorough examination and may order additional tests to determine the underlying cause of the widespread swelling.

Cancer and Lymph Nodes: Understanding the Connection

The relationship between cancer and lymph nodes is complex and multifaceted. Cancer can affect lymph nodes in two primary ways: it can either originate in the lymph nodes or spread to them from another part of the body. How do these two scenarios differ?

Cancer Originating in Lymph Nodes

When cancer starts in the lymph nodes, it’s called lymphoma. This type of cancer directly affects the lymphatic system and can be classified into two main categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Each type has its own characteristics and treatment approaches.

Cancer Spreading to Lymph Nodes

More commonly, cancer starts in another part of the body and then spreads to the lymph nodes. This process is part of cancer metastasis, where cancer cells break away from the primary tumor and travel to other areas of the body.

How does cancer spread to lymph nodes? Cancer cells can travel through either the bloodstream or the lymphatic system. When they move through the lymph system, they may end up in lymph nodes. While most of these escaped cancer cells die or are destroyed, some may survive and start growing in the new location, forming new tumors.

The Metastatic Process: How Cancer Cells Spread

The spread of cancer from its original site to other parts of the body is a complex process known as metastasis. But what steps are involved in this process, particularly when it comes to lymph node metastasis?

Stages of Cancer Metastasis to Lymph Nodes

1. Cancer cells break away from the primary tumor
2. They attach to the outside wall of a lymph or blood vessel
3. The cells move through the vessel wall
4. They travel with the lymph or blood to a new location
5. Some cells survive and begin to grow in the new site

Why do cancer cells often spread to nearby lymph nodes first? Lymph nodes near the primary tumor are usually the first to receive drainage from the affected area. As a result, these nodes are often the first line of defense against spreading cancer cells and may be the initial site of metastasis.

It’s important to note that not all cancer cells that enter the lymphatic system will survive and form new tumors. The journey is perilous for these cells, and many are destroyed along the way by the body’s immune defenses.

Detecting Cancer in Lymph Nodes: Diagnostic Approaches

Identifying cancer in lymph nodes is a crucial aspect of cancer diagnosis and staging. But how do healthcare professionals detect cancer cells in these small structures?

Methods for Detecting Cancer in Lymph Nodes

• Physical examination
• Imaging tests (e.g., CT scans, MRI, PET scans)
• Lymph node biopsy
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy

Can all enlarged lymph nodes be felt during a physical exam? Not necessarily. While some swollen lymph nodes near the body’s surface can be palpated, those deeper in the body may only be detected through imaging studies.

A lymph node biopsy involves removing all or part of a lymph node for microscopic examination. This procedure can provide definitive information about the presence of cancer cells. In some cases, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed, which involves identifying and examining the first lymph node(s) where cancer is likely to spread from a primary tumor.

Importance of Lymph Node Status in Cancer Staging

The presence or absence of cancer in lymph nodes plays a significant role in determining the stage of cancer. This information helps guide treatment decisions and provides valuable insights into a patient’s prognosis.

How does lymph node involvement affect cancer staging? Generally, cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes is considered more advanced than cancer confined to its original site. However, the specific impact on staging can vary depending on the type of cancer and the extent of lymph node involvement.

Treatment Implications of Lymph Node Involvement in Cancer

When cancer is found in lymph nodes, it often necessitates adjustments to the treatment plan. But how exactly does lymph node involvement influence cancer treatment strategies?

Treatment Approaches for Cancer in Lymph Nodes

• Surgery (lymph node dissection)
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Immunotherapy

Does the presence of cancer in lymph nodes always require their removal? Not necessarily. The decision to remove lymph nodes depends on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the number of affected nodes, and the overall treatment plan.

In some cases, a procedure called lymph node dissection may be performed to remove a group of lymph nodes. This can help prevent further spread of cancer and provide more accurate staging information. However, it’s important to note that lymph node removal can have potential side effects, such as lymphedema (swelling due to disrupted lymph drainage).

Balancing Treatment Efficacy and Quality of Life

When considering treatment options for cancer that has spread to lymph nodes, healthcare providers must balance the goal of eradicating cancer with maintaining the patient’s quality of life. This often involves a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating various treatment modalities and supportive care measures.

How do doctors decide on the best treatment approach? The decision is based on multiple factors, including the specific type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their personal preferences. In many cases, a combination of treatments may be recommended to achieve the best possible outcome.

Living with Lymph Node Removal: Managing Potential Side Effects

While lymph node removal can be an important part of cancer treatment, it can also lead to certain side effects. Understanding these potential issues and how to manage them is crucial for patients undergoing lymph node dissection.

Potential Side Effects of Lymph Node Removal

• Lymphedema (swelling due to disrupted lymph flow)
• Reduced range of motion in affected limbs
• Numbness or tingling in the affected area
• Increased risk of infection

Can the side effects of lymph node removal be prevented or minimized? While some side effects may be unavoidable, there are strategies to reduce their impact and improve quality of life. These may include physical therapy, compression garments, and careful skin care to prevent infections.

Lymphedema, one of the most common side effects of lymph node removal, occurs when lymph fluid builds up in tissues, causing swelling. Managing this condition often involves a combination of approaches, including specialized exercises, massage techniques, and compression therapy.

The Importance of Follow-up Care

After lymph node removal, ongoing follow-up care is essential. This includes regular check-ups to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence or progression, as well as management of any ongoing side effects. Patients should be educated about potential symptoms to watch for and encouraged to report any new or worsening issues to their healthcare team promptly.

How long does follow-up care continue after lymph node removal? The duration and frequency of follow-up care can vary depending on the individual case, but it often continues for several years after treatment. Over time, if there are no signs of cancer recurrence, the frequency of follow-up visits may decrease.

Advances in Lymph Node Assessment and Treatment

As medical science progresses, new techniques and technologies are emerging to improve lymph node assessment and treatment in cancer care. These advancements aim to enhance diagnostic accuracy, minimize side effects, and improve overall outcomes for patients.

Innovative Approaches in Lymph Node Assessment

• Molecular techniques for detecting micrometastases
• Advanced imaging methods (e.g., lymphoscintigraphy)
• Artificial intelligence-assisted image analysis
• Liquid biopsy for detecting circulating tumor cells

How are these advances changing cancer care? These new techniques are allowing for earlier and more accurate detection of cancer spread to lymph nodes, potentially leading to more targeted and effective treatments. For example, molecular techniques can detect very small clusters of cancer cells (micrometastases) that might be missed by traditional microscopic examination.

Emerging Treatment Strategies

In addition to improved diagnostic techniques, new treatment approaches are being developed to target cancer in lymph nodes more effectively while minimizing side effects. These include targeted therapies that specifically attack cancer cells, immunotherapies that harness the body’s immune system to fight cancer, and advanced radiation techniques that can more precisely target affected lymph nodes.

What role does personalized medicine play in lymph node cancer treatment? The field of personalized medicine is increasingly important in cancer care, including the treatment of lymph node metastases. By analyzing the genetic makeup of a patient’s cancer, doctors can sometimes identify specific mutations or characteristics that can be targeted with tailored therapies, potentially improving treatment efficacy and reducing side effects.

The Future of Lymph Node Research in Cancer Care

As our understanding of the lymphatic system and its role in cancer progression continues to grow, researchers are exploring new avenues for improving cancer detection, treatment, and prevention. What areas of research hold the most promise for the future of lymph node-related cancer care?

Promising Areas of Lymph Node Research

• Lymphatic mapping and navigation technologies
• Nanoparticle-based therapies for lymph node metastases
• Immune system modulation to enhance lymph node function
• Biomarkers for predicting lymph node involvement
• Regenerative medicine approaches for lymphatic system repair

How might these research areas impact cancer care in the future? Advances in these fields could lead to more precise and less invasive methods for detecting and treating cancer in lymph nodes. For example, improved lymphatic mapping technologies could allow for more targeted removal of affected nodes, reducing the risk of side effects like lymphedema.

Nanoparticle-based therapies hold promise for delivering cancer treatments directly to affected lymph nodes, potentially increasing efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. Meanwhile, research into immune system modulation could lead to new ways of enhancing the body’s natural defenses against cancer spread through the lymphatic system.

The Role of Interdisciplinary Collaboration

As the field of lymph node research in cancer care advances, interdisciplinary collaboration becomes increasingly important. Bringing together experts from fields such as oncology, immunology, bioengineering, and molecular biology can lead to innovative approaches and breakthroughs in understanding and treating lymph node involvement in cancer.

What challenges lie ahead in lymph node cancer research? While the potential for advancement is significant, researchers face several challenges. These include the complexity of the lymphatic system, the heterogeneity of cancer types and their interactions with lymph nodes, and the need for long-term studies to fully understand the impact of new interventions.

Despite these challenges, ongoing research in this field holds great promise for improving outcomes for cancer patients. As our understanding of the lymphatic system’s role in cancer progresses, we can look forward to more targeted, effective, and personalized approaches to diagnosing and treating cancer that has spread to lymph nodes.

Lymph Nodes & Cancer | What are Lymph Nodes?

• What is the lymph system?
• Cancer in the lymph nodes
• Effects of removing lymph nodes

What is the lymph system?

The lymph (or lymphatic) system is a part of your body’s immune system. It includes a network of lymph vessels and lymph nodes. Lymph vessels are a lot like the veins that collect and carry blood through the body. But instead of carrying blood, these vessels carry the clear watery fluid called lymph. Lymph fluid also contains white blood cells, which help fight infections.

Lymph fluid would build up and cause swelling if it were not drained in some way. Lymph vessels draw up the lymph fluid from around the cells to send it towards the chest. There, lymph fluid collects into a large vessel that drains into a blood vessel near the heart.

Lymph nodes and what they do

Lymph vessels send lymph fluid through nodes throughout the body. Lymph nodes are small structures that work as filters for foreign substances, such as cancer cells and infections. They contain immune cells that can help fight infection by attacking and destroying germs that are carried in through the lymph fluid. Lymph nodes are located in many parts of the body, including the neck, armpit, chest, abdomen (belly), and groin. They contain immune cells that can help fight infection by attacking and destroying germs that are carried in through the lymph fluid.

There are hundreds of lymph nodes throughout the body. Each lymph node filters the fluid and substances picked up by the vessels that lead to it. Lymph fluid from the fingers, for instance, works its way toward the chest, joining fluid from the arm. This fluid may filter through lymph nodes at the elbow, or those under the arm. Fluid from the head, scalp, and face flows down through lymph nodes in the neck. Some lymph nodes are deep inside the body, such as between the lungs or around the bowel, to filter fluid in those areas.

Swollen lymph nodes

When there’s a problem, such as infection, injury, or cancer, lymph nodes in that area may swell or enlarge as they work to filter out the “bad” cells. Swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) tell you that something is not right, but other symptoms help pinpoint the problem. For instance, ear pain, fever, and enlarged lymph nodes near your ear are clues that you may have an ear infection or cold.

Some areas where lymph nodes commonly swell are in the neck, groin, and underarms. In most cases, only one area of nodes swells at a time. When more than one area of lymph nodes is swollen it’s called generalized lymphadenopathy. Some infections (such as strep throat and chicken pox), certain medicines, immune system diseases, and cancers like lymphoma and leukemia can cause this kind of swelling. Your health care provider will look for more information to figure out the cause of the swelling. Lymph node swelling is often caused by something other than cancer.

Cancer in the lymph nodes

Cancer can appear in the lymph nodes in 2 ways: it can either start there or it can spread there from somewhere else.

Cancer that starts in the lymph nodes is called lymphoma. You can read more about lymphoma in Hodgkin Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

More often, cancer starts somewhere else and then spreads to lymph nodes. That is the focus of this section.

How does cancer spread to lymph nodes?

Cancer can spread from where it started (the primary site) to other parts of the body.

When cancer cells break away from a tumor, they can travel to other areas through either the bloodstream or the lymph system. If they travel through the lymph system, the cancer cells may end up in lymph nodes. Most of the escaped cancer cells die or are killed before they can start growing somewhere else. But one or two might settle in a new area, begin to grow, and form new tumors. This spread of cancer to a new part of the body is called metastasis.

In order for cancer cells to spread to new parts of the body, they have to go through several changes. They must become able to break away from the original tumor and attach to the outside wall of a lymph or blood vessel. Then they must move through the vessel wall to flow with the blood or lymph to a new organ or lymph node.

When cancer does spread to lymph nodes, it usually spreads to nodes near the tumor itself. These are the nodes that have been doing most of the work to filter out or kill the cancer cells.

How is cancer in lymph nodes found?

Normal lymph nodes are tiny and can be hard to find, but when there’s infection, inflammation, or cancer, the nodes can get larger. Those near the body’s surface often get big enough to feel with your fingers, and some can even be seen. But if there are only a few cancer cells in a lymph node, it may look and feel normal. Lymph nodes deep in the body cannot be felt or seen. So doctors may use scans or other imaging tests to look for enlarged nodes that are deep in the body. Often, enlarged lymph nodes near a cancer are assumed to contain cancer.

The only way to know whether there is cancer in a lymph node is to do a biopsy. Doctors may remove lymph nodes or take samples of one or more nodes using needles. The tissue that’s removed is looked at under the microscope by a pathologist (a doctor who diagnoses illness using tissue samples) to find out if there are cancer cells in it. The pathologist prepares a report, which details what was found. If a node has cancer in it, the report describes what it looks like and how much was seen.

When a surgeon operates to remove a primary cancer, they may remove one or more of the nearby (regional) lymph nodes as well. Removal of one lymph node is considered a biopsy, but when many lymph nodes are removed, it’s called lymph node dissection. When cancer has spread to lymph nodes, there’s a higher risk that the cancer might come back after surgery. This information helps the doctor decide whether more treatment, like chemo, immunotherapy, targeted therapy or radiation, might be needed after surgery.

What does it mean if there’s cancer in my lymph node?

If cancer is found in one or more lymph nodes, it could mean that more tests are needed to know how far the cancer has spread. This information is used to determine the stage of your cancer and the best treatment options.

For more information on staging, see Cancer Staging, or find your cancer type for more detailed information.

Effects of removing lymph nodes

When lymph nodes are removed, it can leave the affected area without a way to drain off the lymph fluid. Many of the lymph vessels now run into a dead end where the node used to be, and fluid can back up. This is called lymphedema, which can become a life-long problem. The more lymph nodes that are removed, the more likely it is to occur. To learn more about what to look for, ways reduce your risk, and how to manage this side effect, see Lymphedema.

Removing lymph nodes during cancer surgery is highly unlikely to weaken a person’s immune system, since the immune system is large and complex and is located throughout the body.

The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team

Our team is made up of doctors and oncology certified nurses with deep knowledge of cancer care as well as journalists, editors, and translators with extensive experience in medical writing.

American Joint Committee on Cancer. AJCC Cancer Staging Manual, 8th ed. New York: Springer 2017: 715-725.

Liao S, von der Weid PY. Lymphatic system: an active pathway for immune protection. Semin Cell Dev Biol. 2015;38:83–89.

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Overview of the Immune System. Updated December 30, 2013. Accessed at https://www.niaid.nih.gov/research/immune-system-overview on February 23, 2021. 

Last Revised: March 2, 2021

American Cancer Society medical information is copyrighted material. For reprint requests, please see our Content Usage Policy.

Purpose, location, and disease warning signs

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that play a crucial role in the immune system. They filter lymphatic fluid, which helps rid the body of germs and remove waste products. During an infection, a person may notice swollen lymph nodes, for instance, around the neck.

The body contains hundreds of lymph nodes. They form clusters around the body and are particularly prominent in areas such as the neck, armpit and groin and behind the ears.

The body’s cells and tissues dispose of waste products in lymphatic fluid, which lymph nodes then filter. During this process, they catch bacteria and viruses that could harm the rest of the body.

Lymph nodes are an essential part of the body’s immune system. Due to their function, they come into contact with toxins, which can cause them to swell. Although swollen lymph nodes are common, they may occasionally indicate lymph node cancer, or lymphoma.

Keep on reading to learn more about lymph nodes and their function within the immune system.

Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which is a complex network of nodes and vessels.

In certain areas of the body, such as the neck, armpit, and groin, lymph nodes sit close to the skin. This means a person may feel them swell when an infection develops.

Lymph nodes are also present in the stomach and between the lungs. However, there are no lymph nodes in the brain or spinal cord.

The name of a lymph node depends on its location in the body.

Lymph nodes form clusters throughout the body. Their main function is to filter out potentially harmful substances.

All tissues and cells in the body excrete lymphatic fluid, or lymph, in order to eliminate waste products. The lymph then travels through vessels in the lymphatic system and passes through lymph nodes for filtering.

Lymph nodes contain lymphocytes. These are a type of white blood cells that help destroy pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When lymph nodes detect a pathogen in the lymph, they produce more lymphocytes, which causes them to swell.

Upon encountering bacteria or damaged cells, lymph nodes destroy them and turn them into a waste product.

When the lymph reenters the bloodstream, waste products travel to the kidneys and liver. The body then excretes waste products in the urine and feces.

Learn more about how the lymphatic system works here.

Swollen lymph nodes do not always indicate cancer. Below, we list some of many conditions that can cause lymph node swelling.

Lymphadenitis

Lymphadenitis occurs when bacteria, viruses, or fungi in the lymph infect lymph nodes. When this happens, lymph nodes swell and are painful to the touch.

If multiple clusters of nodes become infected, a person may feel pain and swelling in both their neck and groin.

The most common type of lymphadenitis is localized lymphadenitis. This means the condition only affects a few nodes. If the infection occurs in several node clusters, a doctor will likely diagnose generalized lymphadenitis.

The condition usually results from an infection elsewhere in the body.

Symptoms

Symptoms of lymphadenitis include:

• sore, swollen nodes
• soft or matted nodes
• skin streaking around the nodes
• abscesses around the nodes
• fluid seeping from the skin

Treatment

Lymphadenitis treatments include:

• antibiotics
• pain relief medication
• anti-inflammatories
• surgery

The type of treatment necessary will depend on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the disease and a person’s underlying conditions and allergies. A doctor will help a person choose the most suitable treatment based on these factors.

Learn more about swollen lymph nodes in the neck here.

Viral or bacterial throat infections

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck may be due to a viral or bacterial throat infection, such as strep throat.

Viral infections

Viral throat infections, such as colds, can present with swollen lymph nodes, a runny nose, and pinkeye.

These infections usually resolve on their own. However, a person can take over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate pain they may experience when swallowing.

Strep throat

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that develops in the throat and tonsils due to group A streptococcus. People may contract strep throat if they come into contact with droplets containing the strep bacteria.

A person with strep throat may experience swollen lymph nodes on the neck, a sore throat, a fever, and red spots on the roof of the mouth.

Doctors treat strep throat with antibiotics.

Impetigo

Impetigo is an infection that develops due to group A streptococcus and may cause lymph nodes in the armpits and groin to swell.

A person can contract impetigo when the bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin. This can happen through sharing a towel, razor, or yoga mat.

Symptoms

Symptoms of impetigo include:

• itchy spots or sores around the nose or mouth that occur with change in skin color
• swollen lymph nodes
• painful sores
• blisters

Treatment

If a person has impetigo, they should seek medical attention to address their symptoms and prevent the condition from spreading to others.

Treatment will usually involve antibiotics.

Ringworm

Ringworm, or jock itch, is a fungal infection that can affect many areas of the body. If the fungus develops in the groin, a person may experience lymph node swelling in that area.

Typically, ringworm starts as a fungal lesion. The fungus often transmits when people share towels or razors.

Ringworm thrives in moist environments, and therefore a person should take care to dry thoroughly after a wash and try not to stay in damp clothes.

Symptoms

Common ringworm symptoms include:

• a patchy rash with a ring-like appearance and clear borders
• itchiness
• stinging
• flaky skin

Treatment

A doctor will prescribe an antifungal treatment to address ringworm.

The best way to prevent ringworm is to wear breathable fabrics, avoid sharing towels and razors, and dry thoroughly after bathing.

Learn more about swollen lymph nodes in the groin here.

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Hodgkin lymphoma occurs when cancer cells spread from one cluster of lymph nodes to another. By contrast, in non-Hodgkin lymphoma, there is no order in how cancer cells spread throughout the lymphatic system.

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of lymphoma include:

• swollen lymph nodes
• fever
• night sweats
• fatigue
• unexplained weight loss

These are also common symptoms of viral infections, which can make lymphoma hard to diagnose. However, in people with lymphoma, symptoms tend to persist for longer periods of time.

It is of note that these symptoms do not clearly indicate cancer. If a person experiences any of these, they should contact a doctor to identify the cause of their symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment options for lymphoma include:

• CAR T cell therapy: This is a type of immunotherapy that uses a person’s own immune system to attack cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: This therapy uses medication to destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high energy beams to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.
• Stem cell transplant: A person receives stem cells from a donor. After they undergo high doses of chemotherapy, which destroys cancer cells and unhealthy blood cells, doctors implant stem cells, which start to produce new, healthy blood cells.

A person should contact a healthcare professional if they are experiencing persistent swelling of lymph nodes.

Swelling usually indicates an infection, and therefore a person should not immediately worry about lymphoma.

After reaching a diagnosis, a doctor will recommend the appropriate course of treatment.

Lymph nodes are a part of the lymphatic system. They filter lymph, which contains pathogens and damaged cells, and send the dead cells to the kidneys and liver.

Lymph node swelling usually results from an infection. In rare cases, however, it may be due to lymphoma.

If a person is concerned about swelling and other symptoms they have, they should contact a doctor.

where they are located, what functions they perform, in what diseases they increase

Inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes usually cause discomfort and pain. As a rule, this indicates that an inflammatory process is underway in the body.

What are lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are the most important organs that perform a barrier-filtration function ¹ . Their main function is the biological filter of lymph – a colorless liquid that washes all the tissues and cells of the body. It consists of plasma and formed elements. Interestingly, lymph plasma has an almost similar chemical structure to blood plasma, but contains fewer proteins ² .

Useful information about lymph nodes

Where are the lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are found almost everywhere. They are arranged in such a way as to become an obstacle in the way of various “garbage”: toxins, viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, cancer cells.

Most lymph nodes are located deep under the skin and even near internal organs where they cannot be felt. But some lymph nodes – under the jaw, in the armpits, in the groin – can be palpated even in a healthy, non-inflamed state.

Photo: Shutterstock

Functions of the lymph nodes

As mentioned earlier, the main function of the lymph nodes is barrier-protective function. In these organs of the lymphatic system, protective cells of the body are formed, such as lymphocytes, antibodies, phagocytes. Lymph nodes protect against the penetration of infections, and also prevent the reproduction of malignant tumor cells and play a role in the immune response to substances foreign to the body.

The lymph nodes also perform the following functions:

• hematopoietic – after the lymph nodes, lymph enriched with lymphocytes enters the blood;
• drainage – promote the outflow of excess fluid;
• depositing (reserve) – a lymph node is a temporary storage of lymphocytes and lymph. The latter lingers in the lymph node in order to ensure the unloading of the bloodstream in “emergency” situations, for example, during venous congestion;
• metabolic – lymph nodes are involved in the metabolism of fats, proteins, carbohydrates and other substances.

Causes of swollen lymph nodes

Lymph nodes have their own diseases, and most often their inflammation is a reaction to some other disease or condition. Completely different reasons can lead to an increase in lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy). Consider the most common of them.

Local infections

Infection is one of the most common causes of swollen lymph nodes.

— For example, it can be acute respiratory diseases, leading to an increase in regional lymph nodes associated with the area in which inflammation occurs, says general practitioner Oksana Khamitseva.

As a rule, the focus of the disease is located near enlarged lymph nodes. So, with infections of the upper respiratory tract, the lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed, with a sexual infection – in the groin.

Generalized viral and bacterial infections

If only one category of lymph nodes is affected, then they speak of local inflammation. If the nodes that are not adjacent to each other increase, then we are talking about a generalized inflammation of the lymph nodes.

This widespread inflammation can be caused by infections – bacterial, viral, fungal, which affect the entire body. It can be tuberculosis, some infectious skin diseases, rubella, chickenpox, cytomegalovirus, mononucleosis, HIV and others.

Autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune connective tissue diseases such as arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus can also cause swollen lymph nodes. In such diseases, the body begins to attack its own cells. Due to the increasing load on the lymph nodes, their inflammation occurs.

Tumor processes

Swollen lymph nodes can also signal tumor processes in the body. As we wrote above, lymph nodes prevent the reproduction of cancer cells, but in some cases, tumor cells can get stuck in them and multiply. Tumor processes can lead to the development of leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis, lymphoma.

Hypersensitivity of the body

Allergic reactions can also provoke inflammation of the lymph nodes. In addition, their increase may be associated with hypersensitivity to certain drugs.

How lymph nodes are treated

The treatment of lymphadenopathy is varied and always depends on its cause. An increase in lymph nodes is a signal of inflammation, so you need to look for its source.

Most often, inflammation of the lymph nodes occurs as a secondary process, that is, a reaction to another disease:

• if this is associated with acute respiratory infections, then it is necessary to treat the respiratory tract infection itself, be it a bacterium or a virus;
• if it is associated with a generalized infection (mononucleosis, HIV), then long-term specific therapy is selected here;
• cat-scratch disease (felinosis) is treated with special antibiotics;
• Sepsis is stopped only in the hospital by intravenous administration of various drugs, including antibiotics, and ionic solutions.
• autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, Kawasaki disease, etc.) are treated by a rheumatologist, prescribing hormones or cytostatics in long courses under constant supervision.

Lymphadenopathy can also be caused by cancer. Conventionally, they can be divided into 3 sections:

1. leukemia, when the primary malignant focus is in the bone marrow;
2. lymphomas, when the foci are located directly in the lymph nodes;
3. metastases, when the focus is located in the internal organ, and cancer cells affect the lymph nodes in the path of lymph outflow.

— In the case of leukemia, a bone marrow transplant is possible. With lymphoma, it is useless to do this, you can only use various options for radiation, chemotherapy, genetic engineering methods. And if lymphadenopathy is caused by metastases, then, as a rule, the tumor of the corresponding organ is removed, entering healthy tissues and capturing the “package” of affected lymph nodes, says our expert Oksana Khamitseva.

How to maintain the health of the lymphatic system at home

According to physician Oksana Khamitseva, the health of the lymphatic system primarily depends on two components: good lymphatic drainage and normal functioning of the immune system. This is not difficult to achieve:

• regular physical activity;
• avoid tight, constricting clothing;
• smoking and alcohol cessation;
• courses of multivitamins 2 times a year;
• food high in protein and fiber in the diet;
• adequate fluid intake.

Popular questions and answers

General practitioner Oksana Khamitseva answers popular questions about lymph nodes.

Which lymph node is responsible for what?

– Each internal organ is supplied with lymph nodes, arteries and veins. If we talk about those lymph nodes that we can feel:

• Submandibular: increase with rhinitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, inflammation of the teeth and gums.
• Cervical: inflamed with acute respiratory infections, conjunctivitis, otitis media.
• Parotid: react to otitis media, acute respiratory infections.
• Occipital: increased with head and neck infections, acute tonsillitis, infectious mononucleosis.
• Axillary: may also be associated with mononucleosis, mastitis, breast cancer, HIV, cat scratch disease.
• Elbows: felinosis, HIV.
• Inguinal: mumps, generalized infections, inflammation of the urogenital organs.

What to do if the lymph nodes are inflamed?

– If you have lymphadenitis, you need to see a doctor, because you do not know what it can be connected with. If you notice an increase in lymph nodes in the head and neck, there are signs of acute respiratory infections (runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever), then you can independently start taking vitamins, antiviral drugs, NSAIDs, symptomatic treatments for colds.

If you notice an increase in lymph nodes, which is objectively not related to the infectious process, then doing something without a doctor’s recommendation can be dangerous. Even taking vitamins, if the process is autoimmune, will spur the immune system to even more aggressive inflammation.

Why is inflammation of the lymph nodes dangerous?

— Complications of lymphadenitis include:

• transfer of infection to nearby tissues: bones, subcutaneous fat, skin;
• blockage by blood clots of veins adjacent to inflamed lymph nodes;
• violation of lymphatic drainage, edema, “elephantiasis” of the limbs.

What can not be done with enlarged lymph nodes?

– If you notice an increase in lymph nodes, then it is strongly not recommended to ignore it, heat or apply ice, make lotions without the permission of a doctor. Also, do not smear with anti-inflammatory ointments (you will reduce one lymph node and decide that you are cured, and if it is an oncology?), squeeze and massage the lymph node.

The patient does not know in which direction the lymph flows from this or that lymph node, and if you make the wrong movements, stagnation can be provoked.

Which doctor treats lymph nodes?

— All roads lead to a therapist. After examination and examination, a specialist can identify what lymphadenitis is associated with, treat acute respiratory infections or refer to an ENT doctor, an infectious disease specialist if an infectious process is detected. If an autoimmune disease is detected, your doctor is a rheumatologist, and in case of suspicion of leukemia or lymphoma, an oncologist.

Sources:

1. Semioshko N.V. Lymph nodes adjacent to the celiac trunk // BBC 28.706 Ya431 V 38. – 2014. – P. 111. http://sno.grsmu.by/conference/mk47.pdf#page=111
2. Pogrelchuk O.E., Danko E.S. Blood and lymph. Hematopoiesis // In the world of scientific discoveries. – 2018. – S. 219-221. https://www.elibrary.ru/download/elibrary_36443065_39723184.pdf
3. Dvoretsky L.I. Differential diagnosis in lymphadenopathy // Handbook of a polyclinic doctor. – 2005. – no. 2. – S. 3-10. https://www.elibrary.ru/item.asp?id=18967212

What are lymph nodes and what to do if they are enlarged?

Lymph nodes allow lymph to pass through, retaining and destroying bacteria, viruses and malignant cells. Sometimes they increase, which raises many questions.

Let’s figure out what lymph nodes are, how they are arranged and why, when they increase, you can not follow the advice from the Internet.

What are lymph nodes and why are they needed?

Lymph node is a peripheral organ of the immune system, located on the path of lymphatic vessels from organs and tissues.

Lymph is the liquid part of the blood that is filtered into the intercellular space through the walls of the capillaries. It is rich in proteins, electrolytes and water. It is impossible to lose these valuable substances, and it is impossible to return them back to the blood vessels through the wall. The “filtrate” of the blood enters the lymphatic system, from where it enters the superior vena cava through a network of vessels, that is, it returns to the bloodstream.

Along the course of the lymphatic vessels there are lymph nodes – rounded formations the size of a pea. At its core, a lymph node is an accumulation of protective cells – lymphocytes and macrophages – on a “frame” of connective tissue. Lymph nodes allow the flow of lymph through them, and the protective cells that make up them delay and destroy foreign agents (bacteria, parasites, viruses, tumor cells) that have entered the human body.

That is why the lymph nodes are called biological filters, and they themselves resemble knight’s castles, located in the most important directions of medieval states and protecting them from enemy attacks.

Classification of lymph nodes

There are approximately 500 lymph nodes in the human body. They are located mainly in groups. Each group receives lymph from a specific area of ​​the body or part of an organ. There are many classifications of lymph nodes, the simplest of them is a classification based on localization. There are no lymph nodes in the brain and spinal cord, bones, and the area of ​​the hands and feet.

Swollen lymph nodes: symptom or disease?

Swollen lymph nodes, or lymphadenopathy, is a symptom of a large number of diseases. This is not an independent disease, but only one of its symptoms, such as headache or fever.

Doctors have many classifications of lymphadenopathy. In this article, we will give only a couple of the main ones that will help in understanding the stated problem.

Depending on the extent of the process, lymph node enlargement can be local and generalized ¹ . In the first case, the lymph nodes of 1-2 adjacent anatomical regions increase. For example, submandibular and cervical. In the second case, there is an increase in lymph nodes in two or more non-adjacent, located far from each other, zones. For example, in the inguinal and axillary regions.

The duration of lymph node enlargement can be short (less than 2 months) and protracted (more than 2 months) ¹ .

Why do lymph nodes enlarge?

Swollen lymph nodes can be a symptom of both a relatively harmless disease and a very serious disease. Therefore, you need not to self-medicate, but to look for the cause. And this is the prerogative of the doctor.

Here are just some of the possible causes of swollen lymph nodes:

• infectious diseases . The entry of an infectious agent (virus, bacteria) into the lymph node leads to increased blood flow, active division of lymphocytes and enlargement of the lymph node. That is, this process is of a reciprocal protective nature. An increase in lymph nodes is observed with infections of the upper respiratory tract (adenoviral, tonsillitis), infectious mononucleosis, childhood infections (measles, rubella, mumps, chickenpox), cytomegalovirus infection, etc. In acute infectious diseases, an increase in lymph nodes is temporary and is accompanied by other symptoms (fever, general weakness, malaise, cough, runny nose). Also, swollen lymph nodes can be one of the symptoms of HIV infection;
• autoimmune connective tissue diseases . With these diseases, the human immune system does not work quite adequately, which is why the body begins to attack its own cells. An increase in lymph nodes can be observed with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus;
• pyoinflammatory processes of the skin, underlying structures and internal organs. Even panaritium or a bad tooth can cause an increase in lymph nodes;
• vaccination . The introduction of a killed pathogen or its parts into the body leads to the development of an immune response. An increase in lymph nodes is not at all uncommon;
• allergic reactions . Taking many medications (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and lowering blood pressure) may be accompanied by an increase in lymph nodes;
• neoplastic diseases . Enlarged lymph nodes are a common and sometimes the only sign of cancer. In oncological diseases, it can be primary and secondary.

Primary enlargement of lymph nodes

It is observed in tumors that directly affect the lymphatic system – lymphomas. Usually in these cases, the lymph nodes are more than 2 cm in diameter, painless, and their increase occurs against the background of apparent health, which is why the person does not immediately turn to the doctor.

Secondary enlargement of lymph nodes

It is observed in a malignant neoplasm of any localization. For example, with breast cancer, the only sign may be an increase in the lymph nodes in the armpit.

The fact is that as soon as malignant cells find themselves in the intercellular space, they quickly enter the lymphatic capillaries, and from there to the nearest lymph node. There, some of them are destroyed, and some settle and begin to divide, forming a secondary tumor focus.

The division of tumor cells and the increase in the number of protective cells over time leads to an increase in the size of the lymph node. This is a kind of “price” for curbing the growth of a tumor and the spread of tumor cells throughout the body, because if there were no lymph nodes, tumor cells would very quickly enter the bloodstream and give distant metastases.

With local lymphadenopathy, the tumor is detected in about half of the cases, and with generalized lymphadenopathy – in almost 90% of cases ¹ ! Therefore, it is so important to exclude the tumor origin of lymphadenopathy and understand its causes. You should not waste precious time on self-treatment, and if enlarged lymph nodes appear, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

What should I do if my lymph nodes are enlarged and which doctor should I visit?

The adult needs to see a GP and the child/teen needs to be taken to see a pediatrician. Usually, a clinical examination and simple studies (general and biochemical blood tests, if necessary, X-ray examination or ultrasound of a certain area of ​​the body) are enough for a specialist to make a preliminary diagnosis and prescribe treatment or refer the patient to a narrower specialist (oncologist, surgeon, rheumatologist, infectious disease specialist) for further examination.

What not to do when the lymph nodes are “swollen”: we break the stereotypes compresses, etc. You can find a great many similar tips on the Internet.

Should I do it? No way.

Warming the Lymph Node Area

Many people use pan-calcined salt or a freshly boiled egg to warm the swollen lymph node area. This is usually done to reduce pain. But for most patients, this is absolutely impossible. In the presence of an inflammatory process, thermal exposure will lead to vasodilation and increased inflammation, and in the case of a tumor process, it can accelerate cell division. Both will make the situation worse.

Taking antibiotics

There are many people who uncontrollably “treat” any “suspicious” symptoms with antibiotics. Of course, this is wrong. Antibacterial drugs are prescribed only by a doctor and strictly according to indications. In most cases, with an increase in lymph nodes, taking antibiotics is simply not advisable and will not give a positive effect.

Use of compresses, ointments/gels

The result here is the same as when warming up – the situation only gets worse. In addition, there is the danger of chemical burns to the skin.

Cabbage leaf application

Cabbage, of course, contains many vitamins and microelements, but it is completely useless as an anti-inflammatory agent. But before the patient has time to be convinced of this, some time passes – and the delay in treatment can have an extremely adverse effect on the result, especially when it comes to malignant diseases such as lymphomas.

Do not waste time on self-treatment! In most cases, this leads to a loss of time and aggravates the situation. Swollen lymph nodes may be a symptom of a serious illness. Consult a doctor who will understand the causes of enlarged lymph nodes and determine further management tactics.

M-EN-00005757 December 2021

Sources (Electronic resource). URL: https://diseases.medelement.