Lymphadenitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
An infection and inflammation of one or more lymph nodes can result in lymphadenitis. The immune system contains tiny, bean-shaped structures called lymph nodes. They assist in the battle against illnesses and infections by filtering lymph fluid. Pus, tenderness, and swelling of the lymph nodes are all possible symptoms of lymphadenitis. Any area of the body with lymph nodes, such as the neck, armpit, groin, or chest, might get lymphadenitis. Numerous kinds of bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites can induce lymphadenitis. Blood, urine, and occasionally a biopsy can all be used to diagnose lymphadenitis. Surgery, painkillers, and antibiotics are available forms of treatment.
Causes
Lymphadenitis is mainly caused by an infection that reaches the lymph nodes through the lymphatic system or the bloodstream. The infection can start in any part of the body, such as the skin, mouth, throat, or lungs. Some of the common causes of lymphadenitis are:
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Staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria, which can cause skin infections, boils, abscesses, cellulitis, or impetigo
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Tuberculosis bacteria, which can cause a chronic lung infection that can spread to the lymph nodes
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Cat scratch disease bacteria, which can be transmitted by a scratch or bite from an infected cat
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Mononucleosis virus, which can cause a flu-like illness that can affect the lymph nodes
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HIV virus, which can weaken the immune system and make it more susceptible to infections
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Toxoplasmosis parasite, which can be contracted by eating undercooked meat or contact with cat feces
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Fungal infections, such as histoplasmosis or cryptococcosis, which can affect the lungs and the lymph nodes
Symptoms
The main symptom of lymphadenitis is a swollen lymph node that is larger than half an inch in diameter. The lymph node may also be red, warm, or painful to touch. Other symptoms may depend on the cause and location of the infection, such as:
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Fever, chills, or night sweats
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Headache, sore throat, or earache
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Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain
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Skin rash, ulcers, or blisters
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Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
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Fatigue, weakness, or weight loss
Diagnosis
A physician will inquire about the patient's symptoms, medical history, and risk factors in order to make the diagnosis of lymphadenitis. A physical examination will also be conducted by the physician to look for physical manifestations of lymphadenitis, such as swollen, sore, or draining lymph nodes. In order to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cause of lymphadenitis, the doctor may additionally prescribe certain tests, such as:
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Blood tests, which can check for signs of infection, inflammation, or anemia, and measure the levels of antibodies, white blood cells, or other markers
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Urine tests, which can check for the presence of bacteria, blood, or protein in the urine
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Biopsy, which is a procedure that involves taking a small sample of the lymph node tissue and examining it under a microscope to confirm the presence of infection and determine the type of microorganism
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Imaging tests, such as X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan, which can show the size and location of the lymph nodes and other organs that may be affected by the infection
Treatment
The treatment of lymphadenitis depends on the cause, severity, and location of the infection. The main goals of the treatment are to eliminate the infection, reduce the inflammation, and relieve the pain. The treatment options may include:
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Antibiotics, which are drugs that can kill or stop the growth of bacteria that cause lymphadenitis. Antibiotics may be given orally or intravenously, depending on the type and extent of the infection. Antibiotics may be given for several days or weeks, depending on the response and the risk of complications.
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Pain relievers, which are drugs that can reduce the pain and discomfort caused by lymphadenitis. Pain relievers may include over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Pain relievers may also help lower the fever and inflammation.
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Surgery, which is a procedure that involves draining or removing the infected lymph node or abscess. Surgery may be necessary if the infection does not respond to antibiotics, if the lymph node is very large or obstructing the airway, or if the infection has spread to other organs or tissues.
Prevention
Some cases of lymphadenitis may not be preventable, especially if they are caused by genetic or environmental factors that are beyond one’s control. However, some cases of lymphadenitis may be prevented or reduced by taking some preventive measures, such as:
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Practicing good hygiene, such as washing the hands frequently, cleaning the wounds properly, and avoiding sharing personal items
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Avoiding contact with people or animals that have infections, such as colds, flu, or cat scratch disease
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Getting vaccinated against diseases that can cause lymphadenitis, such as measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, or tuberculosis
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Eating a healthy and balanced diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, to boost the immune system and prevent infections
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Drinking enough water and staying hydrated, to flush out the toxins and waste from the body
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Exercising regularly and moderately, to improve the blood circulation and the lymphatic drainage
