Definition:
Lymphadenopathy is a term meaning "disease of the lymph nodes." Almost synonymously are used with
"swollen/enlarged lymph nodes".
When the infection of the lymph nodes themselves, it is called lymphadenitis, but when the infection is of the
lymph channels, it is called lymphangitis.
Diagnosis:
Your doctor is likely to take a medical history, ask about when and how your swollen lymph nodes developed, ask
about other signs and symptoms, and check your palpable lymph nodes for size, tenderness, warmth and texture
Treatment:
Treatment for swollen lymph nodes from other causes depends on the cause:
Infection is the most common treatment for swollen lymph nodes caused by a bacterial infection is antibiotics.
Immune disorder if the swollen glands are a result of HIV, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, treatment is directed
at the underlying condition. Cancer swollen glands caused by cancer needs treatment for the cancer.
Symptoms and Signs:
Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other indications of an upper respiratory infection. General swelling of lymph
nodes throughout your body, indicative of infections like HIV or mononucleosis, an infection of the glands, or
immune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Red, inflamed skin over the swollen lymph node, Swollen
limb, possibly indicating lymph system blockage caused by swelling in a lymph node too far under your skin to
feel. Hardened, fixed, rapidly growing nodes, possibly indicating a tumor (rare)
Causes:
The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is an infection, particularly viral infections such as the common
cold.
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