Diagnosis of lymphadenopathy. Treatment of lymphadenopathy of the cervical lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are small organs of the immune system, no larger than a bean. They are present in large quantities throughout the body, being part of the lymphatic system. Lymph is a fluid that collects foreign substances throughout the body and carries them to the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes themselves are the body's natural filters, which contain a huge number of immune system cells - lymphocytes. The purpose of lymphocytes is to get rid of foreign substances and microorganisms (viruses, bacteria) that are transported to the lymph nodes along with the lymph.

Lymphadenopathy is a condition in which the lymph nodes increase in size. Such pathological changes indicate a serious disease that is progressing in the body (often of an oncological nature). To make an accurate diagnosis, several laboratory and instrumental tests are required. Lymphadenopathy can form in any part of the body and even affects internal organs.

Lymphadenopathy syndrome may indicate the presence of serious diseases in the patient, so this condition should be given special attention when diagnosing the patient.

Normally, lymph flows freely through the lymph nodes, but sometimes it begins to accumulate in them, along with the growing number of immune system cells. As a result, the lymph node swells, sometimes increasing many times in size.

Enlarged lymph nodes can be caused by a number of reasons, including:

In addition to pathological changes in the lymph nodes, additional symptoms can be observed. The nature of their manifestation depends on what caused the development of such pathology. In general, the following symptoms can be distinguished: skin rashes;

• elevated temperature;
• increased sweating (especially at night);
• attacks of fever;
• increased splenomegaly and hepatomegaly;
• sudden weight loss for no apparent reason.

In most cases, enlarged lymph nodes are a marker of other complex diseases.

Classification

Depending on the nature of the manifestation and localization of the disease, the following forms of lymphadenopathy are distinguished:

• local;
• generalized.
• reactive;

Local form

Occurs in 70% of cases and is usually associated with limited infection or trauma.

Generalized lymphadenopathy

Generalized lymphadenopathy is considered the most complex form of the disease. Unlike local lymphadenopathy, which affects only one group of lymph nodes, generalized lymphadenopathy can affect any area of ​​the human body. Generalized lymphadenopathy has the following etiology:

• allergic disease;
• autoimmune processes;
• acute inflammatory and infectious diseases.

If enlarged lymph nodes are observed during a chronic infectious disease, then persistent generalized lymphadenopathy is implied. Most often, the pathological process affects nodes in non-overlapping areas - in the anterior and posterior cervical chain, in the axillary and retroperitoneal region. In some cases, enlarged lymph nodes are possible in the groin and supraclavicular areas. The most common diagnosis is neck lymphadenopathy. Cervical lymphadenopathy may indicate illnesses caused by insufficient or excessive production of hormones or cancer.

Reactive lymphadenopathy

Reactive lymphadenopathy is the body's response to infectious diseases. Any number of lymph nodes can be affected. The symptoms are not expressed, there is no painful sensation.

Stages of disease development

According to the statute of limitations, lymphadenopathy can be divided into the following groups:

• acute;
• chronic;
• recurrent.

In addition, any form of lymphadenopathy can take both tumor and non-tumor forms. However, any of them is dangerous to human life.

Characteristic localization of lesions

There are more than 600 lymph nodes in the human body, so the pathological process can develop in almost any system of the human body. But most often lesions are diagnosed in the following places:

• abdomen;
• mammary gland;
• mediastinal area;
• groin area;
• lungs;
• submandibular region;
• armpit area;

Each of these types of pathology indicates an underlying disease. Often this is an oncological disease. It is possible to establish the exact causes of the formation of such a pathological process only after a complete diagnosis.

Abdominal lymphadenopathy

An increase in nodes in the abdominal cavity indicates an infectious or inflammatory disease. Less often, such a pathological process acts as a marker of an oncological or immunological disease. The symptoms, in this case, correspond to the points described above. In a child, the list can be added with the following symptoms:

• increased temperature at night;
• weakness and malaise;
• nausea.

Diagnosis, if damage to the abdominal cavity is suspected, begins with laboratory tests:

• biochemical and general blood test;
• general urine analysis.

When diagnosing, special attention is paid to the patient’s medical history and age, since some ailments are unique to children. Lymphatic vessels and nodes of the abdominal cavity

Lymphadenopathy of the breast

Enlarged breast lymph nodes may indicate a dangerous oncological disease, including cancer. Therefore, if you have such symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor. In this case, it is worth noting the nature of the tumor manifestation. If an increase in nodes is observed in the upper part of the mammary gland, then a benign formation can be assumed. However, almost any benign process can degenerate into a malignant tumor. Enlarged nodes in the lower area of ​​the mammary gland may indicate the formation of a malignant process. You should consult a doctor immediately. Enlarged lymph nodes in the area of ​​the mammary glands can be easily noticed visually. As a rule, the formation is noticed by the woman herself. No painful sensations are observed. Any foreign formation in the area of ​​the mammary glands of both women and men requires immediate examination by a specialized doctor to clarify the diagnosis and correct, timely treatment. The earlier the disease is detected, the greater the chance of a positive result. Especially with regard to intrathoracic pathological changes.

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy, according to statistics, is diagnosed in 45% of patients. To understand what pathology is, it is necessary to clarify what the mediastinum is. Lymphatic vessels and mediastinal nodes

The mediastinum is an anatomical space that forms in the chest cavity. The mediastinum is closed in front by the chest, and in the back by the spine. On both sides of this formation there are pleural cavities. Pathological enlargement of nodes in this area is divided into the following groups:

• primary enlarged lymph nodes;
• malignant tumors;
• damage to organs located in the mediastinum;
• pseudotumor formations.

The latter may be due to defects in the development of large vessels, severe viral and infectious diseases.

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy has a well-defined clinical picture. During the development of such a pathological process, the following symptoms are observed:

• sharp, intense pain in the chest area that radiates to the neck and shoulder;
• dilated pupils or sunken eyeball;
• hoarseness (more often observed during the chronic stage of development);
• headaches, noise in the head;
• heavy passage of food.

In some cases, bluishness of the face and swelling of the veins in the neck may be observed. If the disease has a chronic stage of development, then the clinical picture is more detailed:

• elevated temperature;
• weakness;
• swelling of the limbs;
• heart rhythm disturbance.

The child may experience shortness of breath and increased sweating, especially at night. If such symptoms appear, the child must be hospitalized immediately.

Pulmonary lymphadenopathy

Enlarged lymph nodes of the lungs signal a current underlying disease. In this case, the formation of metastases (lung cancer) cannot be excluded. But under no circumstances should you make such a diagnosis yourself, based on primary signs alone. Simultaneously with the enlargement of the lymph nodes of the lungs, the same pathological process may form in the neck and mediastinum. The clinical picture is as follows:

• cough;
• pain when swallowing;
• labored breathing;
• increased temperature, especially at night;
• pain in the chest area.

Lung damage can be caused by severe infectious diseases - tuberculosis, sarcoidosis and previous injuries. Smoking and excessive alcohol intake should also not be excluded.

Submandibular pathology

Submandibular lymphadenopathy is most often diagnosed in preschool children and adolescents. As medical practice shows, in most cases such changes are temporary and do not pose a threat to the child’s life. But this does not mean that such symptoms should not be paid attention to. The cause of enlarged lymph nodes may be a dangerous oncological formation. Therefore, you should not postpone a visit to the therapist.

Axillary lymphadenopathy

The axillary type of pathology (axillary lymphadenopathy) can even develop due to a hand injury or an infectious disease. But inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes may indicate inflammation of the mammary gland. As statistics show, it is the enlargement of lymph nodes in the axillary region and in the mammary glands that is the first sign of the appearance of metastases in the body of the mammary gland. If the disease is detected early, the chances of a complete cure for breast cancer increase significantly.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic methods depend on the location of the pathology. To prescribe the correct course of treatment, it is necessary not only to make an accurate diagnosis, but also to identify the cause of the progression of the pathological process. The standard procedure includes:

• UAC and OAM;
• tumor markers;
• Ultrasound of the abdominal organs;
• radiography.

Since PAP is a kind of marker of another disease, the cause of the development of the disease should first be diagnosed.

Treatment

It is necessary to treat the disease that caused lymphadenopathy. If this is a tumor metastasis or a primary oncological process, then chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery or a combination thereof is carried out as prescribed by the oncologist.

In inflammatory processes, as a rule, the following is carried out:

• a course of antibiotic therapy in tablets or injections (if there is a bacterial infection);
• antifungal treatment (if the cause of inflammation is a fungus);
• antiviral effect in case of viral infection;
• anti-inflammatory, analgesic therapy (drugs of the NSAID group - ketorol, analgin, ortofen, diclofenac, butadione, nurofen);
• local use of antiseptics (gargling, rinsing the sinuses);
• physiotherapy (it is contraindicated in oncology) – UHF on the area of ​​enlarged lymph nodes;
• strengthening immunity;
• When a lymph node suppurates, it is sometimes opened and the abscess is removed.

Removal of tonsils is carried out only when all conservative treatment measures have been exhausted and do not bring a positive result. It has been proven that, in addition to the barrier function against microbes, the tonsils play a significant role in the maturation of the ovaries in girls. Their early removal can lead to delayed puberty. Later, in adulthood, such women may have problems bearing a child.

For allergic conditions that cause lymphadenopathy, antihistamines are prescribed and the allergen is eliminated (removed).

In case of HIV infection, the patient's immune status is assessed (carried out by determining the level of CD4 cells); if necessary (decrease in the level of CD4 cells below a certain level), antiretroviral therapy is administered aimed at suppressing the human immunodeficiency virus.

For mechanical injuries that cause lymphadenopathy, painkillers and rest are prescribed, and surgery is performed if necessary.

Prevention

Since lymphadenitis in the majority develops during colds, their prevention is associated with hardening the body, strengthening the immune system, and preventing colds.

Complications

With untimely or delayed treatment, the following consequences may develop:

• purulent melting of an enlarged node, formation of fistulas, abscesses;
• bleeding due to germination of the vessel wall;
• thrombophlebitis of the veins of the affected area;
• impaired lymph outflow leading to lymphostasis;
• sepsis.

With timely identification of the cause of lymphadenopathy and adequate treatment of this pathology, it is possible to defeat the disease and avoid undesirable consequences.

Quite often in life we ​​encounter such a manifestation as enlarged lymph nodes. Most often this occurs in the axillary region or behind the ear, but there are other more serious locations of the lesion. In medicine, such a disease is referred to as lymphadenopathy of the lymph nodes and, having seen such a diagnosis in history, many patients do not know that this is not a specific ailment, but only a sign of another more serious illness.

Lymphadenopathy of lymph nodes

Lymphadenopathy is usually divided according to classifications such as location and degree of damage. We will consider the first characteristic a little later in more detail, but for now we will briefly explain the second. There are three types of disease on this basis:

• localized;
• regional;
• generalized.

Most often, doctors diagnose the first type of lymphadenopathy - in 75% of cases, only one lymph node is affected. With the regional subtype of the disease, all or several lymph nodes in one area or in two adjacent ones are affected. The most dangerous type is generalized lymphadenopathy, which is characterized by inflammation of the lymph nodes in several non-overlapping areas.

Symptoms characteristic of the disease

The symptoms of this disease are very different and they depend on the cause of the inflammatory process. For example, the most characteristic is the appearance of “bumps” on the affected lymph node, the palpation of which brings unpleasant sensations, even severe pain. The lymph nodes of the muscle area, groin or neck become inflamed. In this case, you can visually detect redness of the skin.

The second type of lymph nodes is visceral. If they are affected, it is much more difficult to detect the inflammatory process, since the lymph nodes of the porta hepatis or mesenteric nodes are located in hard-to-reach places. And here it is no longer possible to do without diagnostic methods within the walls of the laboratory.

The main symptoms of the disease include the following:

• swelling, rapid increase in body temperature, pain (an acute form of the disease, which can develop into phlegmon if the resulting cavity is not opened);
• slight pain or complete absence of symptoms (in the chronic form);
• weight loss;
• enlarged spleen or liver;
• increased sweating;
• enlarged lymph nodes.

Cervical lymphadenopathy: causes

Cervical lymphadenopathy: causes

The causes of inflammation of the nodes that collect lymph in the neck can be infectious or non-infectious. Most often this is:

As we can see, cervical lymphadenopathy has a variety of causes, therefore, regardless of the symptoms and degree of discomfort, if you have the slightest suspicion, you should immediately contact your physician. This will help quickly localize the disease and prevent a more serious illness.

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy: causes

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy

Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the mediastinum very often has an oncological background. Therefore, the main causes of such lymphadenopathy are:

• lymphomas;
• corcinomas with metastases;
• malignant tumors of the thyroid gland or gastrointestinal tract, mammary glands;
• bronchogenic lung cancer;
• tuberculosis;
• metastatic lung cancer (mediastinal lymphadenopathy in 80% of all cases has this cause).

Axillary lymphadenopathy: causes

Axillary lymphadenopathy

This area of ​​the disease is one of the most common. Surely, every person has encountered a similar phenomenon in life: the axillary region reacts painfully to touch, palpation diagnoses the appearance of swelling. This means that the immune system has begun the active phase of fighting the infection that has entered the body.

But there is another more dangerous cause of inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes - the proliferation of tumor cells. To avoid irreversible consequences, you need to consult a doctor if the slightest sign of hyperplasia appears, and not self-medicate.

Let's look at other reasons that may cause axillary lymphadenopathy:

• Inflammation of the sweat glands or blockage of both hair follicles and glands responsible for sweating (when self-medicating such abscesses at home) due to the use of low-quality deodorants, non-compliance with hygiene standards, etc.;
• The appearance of various wounds or boils in the area of ​​the shoulders, chest or arms;
• Skin diseases such as psoriasis or eczema;
• HIV infection (in this case, enlarged lymph nodes are one of the first symptoms);
• Various forms of mastopathy in female patients;
• Childhood diseases (measles, infectious mononucleosis or chickenpox);
• Serious infectious diseases (tuberculosis, syphilis, plague);
• Systemic diseases (rheumatism);
• Oncological diseases (in particular, breast cancer is one of the most common forms in the field of oncology).

What is the treatment for lymphadenopathy?

Undoubtedly, if the slightest signs of such a syndrome appear, it is necessary to conduct a high-quality diagnosis to determine the cause. Only after installing it can the doctor prescribe the first treatment. This means that self-medication is unacceptable. To completely get rid of the symptoms of lymphadenopathy, you just need to cure the disease that caused it. Then the pain and swelling will disappear on their own, without any additional manipulation.
After determining the true cause of inflammation of the lymph nodes, the patient will undergo further treatment from an infectious disease specialist, oncologist, endocrinologist or urologist. In rare cases, lymphadenopathy requires surgery to remove the affected lymph node.

Main advice: constant measures to improve immunity are the best way to avoid such an unpleasant disease as lymphadenopathy.

Video. Lymphadenopathy of the lymph nodes.

Lymphadenopathy is a condition in which the lymph nodes increase in size. Such pathological changes indicate a serious disease that is progressing in the body (often of an oncological nature). To make an accurate diagnosis, several laboratory and instrumental tests are required. Lymphadenopathy can form in any part of the body and even affects internal organs.

Etiology

It is possible to find out the exact cause of lymphadenopathy only after conducting appropriate studies. The most common causes of enlarged lymph nodes may be the following:

• viral diseases;
• lymph node infection;
• connective tissue injuries and diseases;
• serum sickness (effect of medications);
• fungus;
• infectious diseases that suppress the immune system.

The child most often develops abdominal lymphadenopathy. The reason for this is bacterial and viral infection of the body. Lymphadenopathy in children requires immediate examination by a physician, as symptoms may indicate a severe infectious disease.

Symptoms

In addition to pathological changes in the lymph nodes, additional symptoms can be observed. The nature of their manifestation depends on what caused the development of such pathology. In general, the following symptoms can be identified:

• skin rashes;
• elevated temperature;
• increased sweating (especially at night);
• attacks of fever;
• increased splenomegaly and hepatomegaly;
• sudden weight loss for no apparent reason.

In most cases, enlarged lymph nodes are a marker of other complex diseases.

Classification

Depending on the nature of the manifestation and localization of the disease, the following forms of lymphadenopathy are distinguished:

• local;
• reactive;
• generalized.

Generalized lymphadenopathy

Generalized lymphadenopathy is considered the most complex form of the disease. Unlike local lymphadenopathy, which affects only one group of lymph nodes, generalized lymphadenopathy can affect any area of ​​the human body.

Generalized lymphadenopathy has the following etiology:

• allergic disease;
• autoimmune processes;
• acute inflammatory and infectious diseases.

If enlarged lymph nodes are observed during a chronic infectious disease, then persistent generalized lymphadenopathy is implied.

Most often, the pathological process affects nodes in non-overlapping areas - in the anterior and posterior cervical chain, in the axillary and retroperitoneal region. In some cases, enlarged lymph nodes are possible in the groin and supraclavicular areas.

The most common diagnosis is neck lymphadenopathy. Cervical lymphadenopathy may indicate illnesses caused by insufficient or excessive production of hormones or cancer.

Reactive lymphadenopathy

Reactive lymphadenopathy is the body's response to infectious diseases. Any number of lymph nodes can be affected. The symptoms are not expressed, there is no painful sensation.

Stages of disease development

According to the statute of limitations, lymphadenopathy can be divided into the following groups:

• acute;
• chronic;
• recurrent.

In addition, any form of lymphadenopathy can take both tumor and non-tumor forms. However, any of them is dangerous to human life.

Characteristic localization of lesions

There are more than 600 lymph nodes in the human body, so the pathological process can develop in almost any system of the human body. But most often lesions are diagnosed in the following places:

• abdomen;
• mammary gland;
• mediastinal area;
• groin area;
• lungs;
• submandibular region;
• armpit area;

Each of these types of pathology indicates an underlying disease. Often this is an oncological disease. It is possible to establish the exact causes of the formation of such a pathological process only after a complete diagnosis.

Abdominal lymphadenopathy

An increase in nodes in the abdominal cavity indicates an infectious or inflammatory disease. Less often, such a pathological process acts as a marker of an oncological or immunological disease. The symptoms, in this case, correspond to the points described above. In a child, the list can be added with the following symptoms:

• increased temperature at night;
• weakness and malaise;
• nausea.

Diagnosis, if damage to the abdominal cavity is suspected, begins with laboratory tests:

When diagnosing, special attention is paid to the patient’s medical history and age, since some ailments are unique to children.

Treatment

The main course of treatment for lesions of the abdominal cavity is aimed at localizing the pathological process and stopping the growth of the tumor. Therefore, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are used. At the end of the course, restorative therapy is prescribed to restore the immune system. If treatment of this type does not bring the desired results or a pathology of unknown pathogenesis develops, then surgical intervention is performed - the affected lymph node is completely removed.

Lymphadenopathy of the breast

Enlarged lymph nodes of the mammary gland may indicate a dangerous cancer, including. Therefore, if you have such symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.

In this case, it is worth noting the nature of the tumor manifestation. If an increase in nodes is observed in the upper part of the mammary gland, then a benign formation can be assumed. However, almost any benign process can degenerate into a malignant tumor.

Enlarged nodes in the lower area of ​​the mammary gland may indicate the formation of a malignant process. You should consult a doctor immediately.

Enlarged lymph nodes in the area of ​​the mammary glands can be easily noticed visually. As a rule, the formation is noticed by the woman herself. No painful sensations are observed.

Any foreign formation in the area of ​​the mammary glands of both women and men requires immediate examination by a specialized doctor to clarify the diagnosis and correct, timely treatment. The earlier the disease is detected, the greater the chance of a positive result. Especially with regard to intrathoracic pathological changes.

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy, according to statistics, is diagnosed in 45% of patients. To understand what pathology is, it is necessary to clarify what the mediastinum is.

The mediastinum is an anatomical space that forms in the chest cavity. The mediastinum is closed in front by the chest, and in the back by the spine. On both sides of this formation there are pleural cavities.

Pathological enlargement of nodes in this area is divided into the following groups:

• primary enlarged lymph nodes;
• malignant tumors;
• damage to organs located in the mediastinum;
• pseudotumor formations.

The latter may be due to defects in the development of large vessels, severe viral and infectious diseases.

Symptoms

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy has a well-defined clinical picture. During the development of such a pathological process, the following symptoms are observed:

• sharp, intense pain in the chest area that radiates to the neck and shoulder;
• dilated pupils or sunken eyeball;
• hoarseness (more often observed during the chronic stage of development);
• headaches, noise in the head;
• heavy passage of food.

In some cases, bluishness of the face and swelling of the veins in the neck may be observed. If the disease has a chronic stage of development, then the clinical picture is more detailed:

• elevated temperature;
• weakness;
• swelling of the limbs;
• heart rhythm disturbance.

The child may experience shortness of breath and increased sweating, especially at night. If such symptoms appear, the child must be hospitalized immediately.

Pulmonary lymphadenopathy

Enlarged lymph nodes of the lungs signal a current underlying disease. In this case, the formation of metastases () is not excluded. But under no circumstances should you make such a diagnosis yourself, based on primary signs alone.

Simultaneously with the enlargement of the lymph nodes of the lungs, the same pathological process may form in the neck and mediastinum. The clinical picture is as follows:

• cough;
• pain when swallowing;
• labored breathing;
• increased temperature, especially at night;
• pain in the chest area.

Lung damage can be caused by severe infectious diseases and previous injuries. Smoking and excessive alcohol intake should also not be excluded.

Submandibular pathology

Submandibular lymphadenopathy is most often diagnosed in preschool children and adolescents. As medical practice shows, in most cases such changes are temporary and do not pose a threat to the child’s life. But this does not mean that such symptoms should not be paid attention to. The cause of enlarged lymph nodes may be a dangerous oncological formation. Therefore, you should not postpone a visit to the therapist.

Axillary lymphadenopathy

The axillary type of pathology (axillary lymphadenopathy) can even develop due to a hand injury or an infectious disease. But inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes may indicate inflammation of the mammary gland. Therefore, you should not postpone a visit to the therapist.

As statistics show, it is the enlargement of lymph nodes in the axillary region and in the mammary glands that is the first sign of the appearance of metastases in the body of the mammary gland. If the disease is detected early, the chances of a complete cure for breast cancer increase significantly.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic methods depend on the location of the pathology. To prescribe the correct course of treatment, it is necessary not only to make an accurate diagnosis, but also to identify the cause of the progression of the pathological process.

The standard procedure includes:

• UAC and OAM;
• tumor markers;
• radiography.

Since PAP is a kind of marker of another disease, the cause of the development of the disease should first be diagnosed.

Treatment

The choice of treatment method depends on the diagnosis. In addition, when prescribing a treatment plan, the doctor takes into account the following factors:

• individual characteristics of the patient;
• anamnesis;
• survey results.

Treatment with folk remedies may be appropriate with the permission of a doctor and only in tandem with drug therapy. Self-medication for such pathological processes is unacceptable.

Prevention

Unfortunately, there is no prevention of such manifestations as such. But if you lead a healthy lifestyle, monitor your health and consult a doctor in a timely manner, you can minimize the risk of progression of dangerous illnesses.

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The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

What does enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes mean?

Lymph nodes– the most important link of the lymphatic system, performing a drainage and protective function.

The lymph nodes receive interstitial fluid from the lymphatic capillary system, containing elements that do not enter the blood (coarsely dispersed proteins, fragments of dead cells, microorganisms and their metabolic products, etc.).

In case of cancer, tumor cells linger in the lymph nodes, which often settle there and begin to multiply, forming tumor metastasis. In this case it happens enlarged lymph nodes, as a rule, not accompanied by inflammation.

The occurrence of this pathology, as a rule, indicates a weakening of the body’s defense reactions caused by one reason or another (senile age or infancy, the presence of concomitant diseases, previous infections, physical or psychological trauma, hypothermia, etc.).

Inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes occurs both with nonspecific infections (streptococcus, staphylococcus, etc.) and with infections caused by specific microflora (tuberculosis, cat scratch disease, etc.).

It should be noted that the importance of lymph nodes for the body is not limited to the drainage function alone. Lymph nodes contain lymphocytes that produce antibodies against foreign proteins. When a sufficient number of microorganisms enter the lymph node, its working hypertrophy occurs.

In such cases, the enlargement of the lymph node is not associated with inflammation of its tissue, but with an increase in the number of lymphocytes that produce antibodies against this infection, as well as macrophages that absorb microorganisms, their waste products and dead cells.

Working hypertrophy of the lymph nodes occurs both in regional infections (chronic tonsillitis, pharyngitis, etc.) and in chronic septicemia (blood poisoning), which most often develops in severe blood diseases that occur with a decrease in the level of normal leukocytes in the blood (aplastic anemia , chronic agranulocytosis, etc.).

Systemic autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.) are also characterized by working hypertrophy of the lymph nodes that produce antibodies against the tissues of the body’s own. In this case, the degree of enlargement of the lymph nodes indicates the activity of the process.

And finally, like any tissue of the human body, lymph nodes can undergo tumor degeneration. In such cases (lymphogranulomatosis, lymphomas), an enlargement of the lymph nodes of a non-inflammatory nature also occurs.

Signs of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes. How to determine enlarged lymph nodes yourself?

There are the following most important groups of lymph nodes that you should pay attention to if you suspect a pathology of the lymphatic system:
1. Occipital.
2. Parotid.
3. Cervical.
4. Submandibular.
5. Supraclavicular.
6. Axillary.
7. Elbows.
8. Inguinal.
9. Popliteal.

It is believed that normally the size of lymph nodes should not exceed 1 cm. The size of lymph nodes depends on their location and the individual characteristics of the body. It should be noted that most lymph nodes in normal condition cannot be palpated at all.

When diagnosing pathological enlargement of lymph nodes, other signs are also taken into account. Normal lymph nodes:
1. Absolutely painless on palpation.
2. They have a densely elastic consistency.
3. Movable (easily move when palpated).

With enlargement and inflammation, the lymph nodes often become painful and lumpy, lose elasticity, and in the case of a chronic process, they often unite into one conglomerate of irregular shape and become fused with the surrounding tissues.

In addition, in some cases, with inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes, the skin over them undergoes pathological changes: pain, swelling and hyperemia (redness) are observed.

It is quite possible to determine the described signs independently by palpation, however, additional examination and consultation with a specialist is necessary to make a diagnosis.

Causes

All reasons for enlarged lymph nodes can be divided into several large groups:
1. Infection.
2. Systemic autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, autoimmune thyroiditis, etc.).
3. Oncological pathology of lymphoid tissue (lymphogranulomatosis, lymphomas).
4. Oncological diseases of other organs and tissues (metastatic lesions of lymph nodes).

Thus, the list of diseases in which enlargement of the lymph nodes occurs is quite long, so that in case of suspected inflammation of the lymph nodes, it is often necessary to carry out a differential diagnosis with non-inflammatory enlargement (tumor metastases to the lymph nodes, lymphogranulomatosis, etc.).

Inflammation of the lymph nodes - symptoms, causes, complications and what to do? - video

How to determine inflammation of the lymph nodes? Pain, temperature and enlargement as symptoms of acute inflammation of the lymph nodes

Any inflammatory reaction is accompanied by tissue swelling - this is one of the obligatory signs of inflammation, known since the time of Hippocrates.

Thus, when the lymph nodes become inflamed, their size always increases. However, there are many pathologies that occur with regional or systemic enlargement of the lymph nodes, which are not accompanied by inflammation.

Therefore, when making a diagnosis, you have to take into account other signs that indicate this symptom. So, a mandatory sign of any inflammatory process is pain. Therefore, in case of acute inflammation, the lymph nodes are always painful to the touch. In addition, with severe inflammation, patients complain of pain in the affected lymph node, which intensifies with movement.

If inflammation of the lymph node develops acutely and violently, then the gate of infection can be easily detected - the source of inflammation from which, through the flow of lymphatic vessels, pathogenic microorganisms entered the affected node. This could be a wound on the surface of the skin, a sore throat, an inflammatory lesion of the external genitalia (vaginitis, balanitis), etc.

And finally, with acute inflammation of the lymph node, a general reaction of the body is observed:

• increased body temperature (sometimes to very high numbers);
• chills;
• headache;
• weakness;

However, in the case of subacute or chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes, pain and general reaction of the body may be absent. Moreover, recurrent inflammatory reactions (for example, chronic tonsillitis, accompanied by an increase in regional submandibular lymph nodes) lead to their irreversible degeneration. Such nodes are often palpated as absolutely painless formations of varying sizes (sometimes the size of a hazelnut).

Thus, the differential diagnosis of inflammatory and non-inflammatory lymph node enlargement can be very difficult.

Therefore, if the lymph nodes are inflamed, it is necessary to consult a doctor to undergo a thorough examination, identify the cause of their enlargement and promptly begin adequate therapy.

Nonspecific infections as a cause of enlargement and inflammation of the submandibular, cervical, axillary, elbow, inguinal, femoral, or popliteal lymph nodes: symptoms and treatment

Nonspecific infection, as one of the most common causes of pathology

Nonspecific infection is one of the most common causes of enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes. A nonspecific infection is a pathology caused by the so-called opportunistic microflora.

These are microorganisms that often inhabit the human body, usually without causing signs of disease. However, when favorable conditions arise (hypothermia, illness, stress, injury, etc.), opportunistic microflora begins to multiply intensively, which leads to the development of the disease.

Most often, nonspecific inflammation of the lymph nodes is caused by so-called pyogenic cocci:

• less often - E. coli;
• even less often - other opportunistic microorganisms.

A nonspecific infection in uncomplicated cases causes a regional rather than a general process - that is, there is an enlargement and inflammation of one or a group of nearby lymph nodes:

• submandibular;
• cervical;
• axillary;
• elbows;
• inguinal;
• femoral;
• popliteal

According to the nature of the course, acute and chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by nonspecific flora is distinguished.

Infection during acute inflammation enters from a local focus (carbuncle, furuncle, open infected wound, felon, etc.) into the lymph node, and causes an acute reaction there, for which the following clinical and morphological classification exists:
1. Acute catarrhal lymphadenitis.
2. Acute purulent lymphadenitis.
3. Adenophlegmon.

These types of acute inflammation of the lymph nodes represent stages of a pathological process, which, with timely and adequate treatment, can be stopped at the stage of catarrhal lymphadenitis.

Chronic nonspecific inflammation of the lymph nodes, as a rule, occurs as a local complication of chronic foci of infection. Less commonly, it develops as a result of untreated acute catarrhal lymphadenitis.

The course of chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes is productive (connective tissue grows inside the lymph node), so that over time, the enlargement of the affected lymph node is replaced by its degenerative shrinkage. In this case, suppuration occurs extremely rarely.

What does acute purulent inflammation of the lymph nodes look like?

Acute catarrhal inflammation begins with moderate pain in enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes. The general reaction of the body is not expressed sharply. There may be a slight low-grade fever (temperature rise to 37 - 37.5 degrees), weakness, and fatigue. The skin over the inflamed lymph nodes is without pathological changes.

If the patient does not receive adequate treatment, the catarrhal process can turn purulent. Purulent lymphadenitis is characterized by sharp pain in the affected area, which intensifies with movement. Palpation of the lymph nodes is extremely painful; a dense infiltrate is felt in the affected area, consisting of inflamed nodes and edematous surrounding tissues. Redness and swelling appear above the inflamed formations. The general reaction of the body intensifies: the temperature rises to febrile levels (38-39), patients complain of increasing weakness and headache.

Then, in the center of the infiltrate, a purulent melting of tissue forms, which is palpated in the form of a softening focus. With further development, adenophlegmon is formed - diffuse purulent inflammation of the tissues surrounding the affected lymph node. The patient's condition worsens: movements in the affected part of the body are severely difficult due to pain, fever with chills increases, heart rate increases, blood pressure may decrease, headache intensifies, nausea and dizziness appear.

Consequences

Adequate treatment of acute purulent inflammation of the lymph nodes, as a rule, leads to complete recovery without any consequences for the body. Melting of a purulent focus is an indication for emergency surgical intervention, since generalization of the infection is possible with the appearance of purulent foci in distant organs and tissues.

In addition, if acute inflammation of the lymph nodes is not treated in a timely manner, there is a risk of developing purulent thrombophlebitis (purulent inflammation of the veins of the affected part of the body), which, in turn, can be complicated by pulmonary embolism (clogging of the pulmonary vessels with fragments of blood clots and/or fragments of pus entering the bloodstream ) or sepsis.

How to treat?

In cases where it is possible to find the primary source of infection, its sanitation is carried out (opening the abscess, treating an infected wound, etc.).

Most often, acute inflammation of the lymph node occurs on the extremities. In such cases, immobilization (immobilization) of the affected arm or leg is performed. This measure prevents the spread of infection and alleviates the general condition of the patient.

At the stage of catarrhal inflammation, conservative treatment is carried out. Antibiotic therapy is indicated, taking into account the sensitivity of microflora to antibiotics, dry heat (compresses, UHF, etc.).

In case of purulent melting of the lymph node and lymphophlegmon, the resulting abscess is opened, followed by drainage of the cavity.

Long-term painless enlargement of lymph nodes in chronic inflammation caused by nonspecific microflora

In case of chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by nonspecific microflora, the only clinical symptom may be their enlargement, which is usually detected by a doctor during an examination for the underlying disease:

• chronic tonsillitis;
• pharyngitis;
• trophic ulcer of the leg;
• chronic inflammatory diseases of the external genitalia, etc.

If you discover enlarged lymph nodes on your own, and suspect its connection with a source of chronic infection, you should consult a doctor. Since clinical data for chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes are quite scarce, an examination is prescribed to exclude other diseases that occur with enlarged lymph nodes.

How to cure?

Treatment of chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes consists, first of all, in sanitation of the source of chronic infection that caused the inflammation.

Antibiotics are prescribed. At the same time, samples are taken from the source of infection to determine the sensitivity of microorganisms to drugs (nonspecific microflora is often resistant to many antibacterial agents).

In addition, they carry out activities that strengthen the body's defenses: vitamin therapy, general tonics, herbal medicine, spa treatment, etc.

Is chronic enlargement and inflammation of lymph nodes caused by nonspecific microflora dangerous?

Chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by nonspecific microflora indicates a decrease in the body's defenses. This condition in itself poses a threat to the patient's health.

Long-term chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes leads to their degeneration. Sometimes, as a result of the proliferation of connective tissue, lymph drainage is disrupted in the affected lymph node and lymphostasis develops, which is clinically manifested by chronic swelling and trophic disorders in the affected area of ​​the body.

In severe cases of chronic lymphostasis, elephantiasis develops - a pathological proliferation of connective tissue, leading to a significant increase and disfigurement of the affected area of ​​the body. Most often, elephantiasis is observed on the lower extremities, which in such cases visually resemble the legs of an elephant - hence the name.

Specific infections as a cause of enlargement and inflammation
lymph nodes

Tuberculosis

Symptoms of enlargement and inflammation of intrathoracic lymph nodes
Tuberculosis of the intrathoracic lymph nodes is a form of primary tuberculosis (a disease that develops immediately after infection), in which the intrathoracic lymph nodes become enlarged and inflamed, while the lung tissue remains intact.

This is the most common form of primary tuberculosis (about 80% of all cases). This increased incidence is associated with vaccination against the disease. This is why tuberculosis of the intrathoracic lymph nodes is more common in children, adolescents and young people, when artificial immunity is still quite strong.

Symptoms of tuberculous inflammation of the intrathoracic lymph nodes depend on the degree of their enlargement, the localization of the process and its prevalence.

A common process is manifested by a severe whooping cough, worsening at night. At first the cough is dry, then sputum appears. In addition, signs of tuberculosis intoxication are characteristic: weakness, lethargy, fever (sometimes up to high numbers), night sweats, irritability.

In minor forms, which are more often observed in vaccinated children, the disease is practically asymptomatic and is detected only during routine examinations.

Enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the lungs
When infected with tuberculosis, the so-called primary tuberculosis complex often forms in the lung tissue - inflammation of an area of ​​the lung tissue, combined with lymphangitis (inflammation of the lymphatic vessel) and lymphadenitis.

It should be noted that in many cases, the primary tuberculosis complex is asymptomatic and is often not diagnosed - at this stage self-healing is possible (resorption or calcification of the lesion).

In addition to enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the lungs, during primary infection, a reactive enlargement of the superficial lymph nodes (reaction to infection) often occurs, which has important diagnostic value.

If the course of the disease is unfavorable, further spread of the infection occurs. In this case, the lung tissue is affected and other nodes become enlarged and inflamed.

Signs of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes are detected radiographically, but clinical manifestations depend on the location and degree of their enlargement. Thus, when the airways are compressed, an obsessive dry cough is possible, and when the trachea is partially blocked, noisy breathing occurs.

The clinical picture of tuberculous lymphadenitis, as a rule, develops against the background of severe intoxication and symptoms of lung damage (cough, shortness of breath, chest pain).

Enlargement and inflammation of the submandibular, cervical, axillary, inguinal and ulnar lymph nodes
Infectious and inflammatory lesions of superficial lymph nodes in tuberculosis develop when the infection spreads throughout the body some time after the initial infection.

Most often, enlargement and inflammation of the submandibular and cervical lymph nodes occur. At the initial stage of the process, symptoms of tuberculosis intoxication are observed, as well as pain in the area of ​​the affected nodes, which during this period are palpable as mobile elastic formations.

Subsequently, the lymph nodes fuse together and with surrounding tissues, and then suppuration occurs with the formation of an external long-term non-healing fistula.

In addition to the formation of fistulas and abscesses, enlargement and inflammation of the superficial lymph nodes during tuberculosis can lead to bleeding (when the vessel wall is infiltrated) and to the generalization of the process.

Symptoms of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity (mesenteric lymph nodes) with abdominal tuberculosis
Abdominal tuberculosis is a fairly rare form of tuberculosis that affects the abdominal organs. As a rule, abdominal tuberculosis occurs with mesadenitis - enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity.

There are acute and chronic courses of tuberculous mesadenitis. In the acute form, patients complain of severe abdominal pain, which, as a rule, is localized along the intestinal mesentery, to which the inflamed lymph nodes are attached: in the navel, in the left hypochondrium and in the right iliac region (to the right and below the navel). A characteristic symptom is shifting pain when the patient turns to the left side.

Chronic mesadenitis occurs with remissions and exacerbations, and can manifest itself as attacks of intestinal colic or constant dull aching pain. Patients often complain of bloating, which increases in the evening.

A serious complication of chronic enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity is the formation of bedsores of the neurovascular bundle due to prolonged pressure from calcified nodes.

Enlargement and inflammation of the inguinal, mandibular and mental lymph nodes in primary syphilis

Primary syphilis, as a rule, develops approximately a month after infection (cases of the development of the disease 6 days and 6 months after contact with the infection have been described). In this case, at the site of penetration of Treponema pallidum (the causative agent of the disease), a so-called chancre appears - an ulcer on a compacted base.

A few days after the appearance of hard chancre, enlargement and inflammation of the nearest lymph nodes develop. Since infection most often occurs during sexual intercourse and kissing, the inguinal lymph nodes are most often affected (if the chancre is located on the genitals), as well as the mandibular or chin (if the primary ulcer is located on the lips or in the oral cavity).

Enlargement of the inguinal and mandibular lymph nodes is usually bilateral, up to the size of a hazelnut or bean. At the same time, the affected nodes retain a hard-elastic consistency, are mobile and absolutely painless. Often, concomitant lymphangitis develops - inflammation of the lymphatic vessel leading to the enlarged node. The inflamed lymphatic vessel is palpable in the form of a hard thin cord, sometimes with distinct thickenings.

Much less commonly, a primary ulcer occurs on the fingers (possible infection through damaged skin if hygiene rules are not followed during the examination) or on the body (most often due to bites). In such cases, the corresponding regional lymph nodes become inflamed.

The duration of primary syphilis is about 12 weeks. All its manifestations are painless and disappear on their own, without treatment. Rarely (when the body is weakened and hygiene rules are violated) a secondary infection occurs and inflammation of the chancre occurs. In such cases, the development of purulent lymphadenitis is possible.

Enlargement and inflammation of the occipital, cervical, parotid, popliteal and axillary lymph nodes as an important diagnostic sign of rubella

Enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes with rubella occurs in the first hours of the disease, when there is no rash yet, and therefore is an important diagnostic sign of this disease.

Most often with rubella, enlargement and inflammation of the occipital, posterior cervical and parotid lymph nodes occur. In this case, patients complain of neck pain, which increases with head movements.

Palpation reveals a painful enlargement of the lymph nodes (usually to the size of a bean), while their elastic consistency and mobility are preserved.

Chickenpox

Enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes with chickenpox develops at the height of the characteristic rashes (vesicles on the skin and mucous membranes filled with serous fluid), and has no independent diagnostic value.

It should be noted that this symptom does not develop in all cases, and in adult patients, as a rule, it indicates the severity of the disease.

HIV

Generalized enlargement of lymph nodes is a frequent companion to the subclinical stage of HIV. This stage of the disease occurs after a short manifest flu-like period, which not all patients notice.

Apart from enlarged lymph nodes, no other manifestations are noted at this time, although laboratory tests can already detect the disease. That is why clinicians often call this stage the stage of generalized lymphadenopathy.

The most commonly affected are the cervical, occipital and axillary lymph nodes. It is believed that the enlargement of two or more groups of extra-inguinal lymph nodes (size more than 1 cm) for more than three months should raise suspicion of HIV.

Of course, generalized enlargement of lymph nodes occurs in many diseases, so this sign cannot be considered an absolute marker of HIV, therefore further examination is necessary for a correct diagnosis.

Enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes is a constant sign of the advanced clinical stage of AIDS. It should be noted that during this period, lymphadenopathy can be caused by both HIV and infectious complications that develop at this stage of the disease.

What is the danger of enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes during specific infections?

Enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes during specific infections is, first of all, of important diagnostic value. The danger here depends on the cause of the disease. Therefore, specific treatment of an infectious disease (tuberculosis, syphilis, HIV, etc.) is necessary. In addition, precautions should be taken so as not to endanger others, including family and friends.

Causes of enlargement and inflammation of lymph nodes in children

In children, enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes is much more common than in adults. First of all, this is due to physiological reasons: the child’s body reacts more violently to infection.

In addition, some infections that cause enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes develop mainly in children (rubella, chickenpox, measles).

The cause of non-inflammatory lymph node enlargement at an early age may be severe hematological diseases (acute leukemia, lymphoma, lymphogranulomatosis, congenital blood pathology).

But cancerous lesions of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and mammary gland, which can metastasize to the lymph nodes, are practically never found in children.

Answers to the most popular questions

What are the causes of enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes in the groin in men and women?

The inguinal lymph nodes receive intercellular fluid from the lower abdominal wall, external genitalia, perineum, gluteal region and extremities. Any purulent focus in this area can cause enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes (boil of the buttock, purulent wound of the limb, etc.).

However, the most common cause of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin is inflammatory processes of the external genital organs (vaginitis in women, balanitis in men), which can be caused by both specific (gonorrhea, syphilis, chancroid, genital herpes) and nonspecific microflora (with colds and violation of personal hygiene rules).

When making a diagnosis, the possibility of non-inflammatory lymph node enlargement should be taken into account. It is necessary to exclude their metastatic damage during the tumor process in the pelvic organs, as well as malignant transformation of lymphoid tissue (lymphoma).

When does enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arms develop in women?

Enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpits in women most often develops with pathology of the mammary glands. In this case, the increase can be of both inflammatory (complication of mastitis) and tumor genesis (breast cancer metastases).

In addition, enlargement and inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes in women may be a consequence of the presence of silicone implants.

And finally, in women, as well as in men, enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpits develops with tumors (melanoma) and infectious diseases of the external skin of the upper extremities and chest (infected wounds, ulcers, cat scratch disease, etc.).

A differential diagnosis with lymphoma is routinely performed.

What could be the reasons for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes in the neck?

The lymph nodes located on the front surface of the neck receive lymph from the eyelids, conjunctiva, temporal surface of the head, and external auditory canal. Enlargement and inflammation of the nodes on the front of the neck, as a rule, indicate the presence of an infectious process in these areas.

Differential diagnosis of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes located in the back of the neck is much more difficult. In addition to a banal infection, such lymphadenitis may indicate rubella or tuberculosis.

In addition, the possibility of developing lymphoma and metastatic lesions of the lymph nodes in malignant neoplasms of the head and neck should be taken into account.

Which doctor should I contact?

If you suspect enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes, consult a general practitioner (general practitioner, pediatrician or family doctor). He will conduct an additional examination and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist doctor (surgeon, oncologist, infectious disease specialist, rheumatologist, hematologist, etc.).

I'm expecting a baby (fourth month of pregnancy). I recently caught a cold, a severe sore throat, and a fever. Today I noticed enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes under the jaw. How dangerous is it during pregnancy?

Judging by your symptoms, you most likely have acute pharyngitis (inflammation of the pharynx), complicated by enlargement and inflammation of regional lymph nodes.

This condition, in itself, does not pose a danger to pregnancy, however, it is necessary to urgently seek medical help and undergo a course of treatment, since with untimely or inadequate treatment, complications may develop - such as, for example, suppuration of the lymph node or the development of streptococcal glomerulonephritis.

Complications of this kind can threaten pregnancy, and it will be much more difficult to cure them without harm to the child.

What tests are prescribed?

The examination program for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes depends on factors such as:

• type of course (acute or chronic inflammation);
• prevalence (generalized or regional enlargement of lymph nodes);
• the presence of other symptoms of lymph node pathology (pain on palpation, loss of consistency, adhesion to surrounding tissues, etc.);
• the presence of specific signs that allow one to suspect a specific pathology (characteristic intoxication syndrome in tuberculosis, chancroid in syphilis, rash in measles, focus of infection in acute inflammation of the lymph node, etc.).

There is a general examination program, including standard tests (general and biochemical blood tests, general urinalysis). If necessary, it can be supplemented with other studies (chest x-ray if tuberculosis or lymphogranulomatosis is suspected, serological tests for syphilis or HIV, lymph node puncture if metastatic lesion or lymphoma is suspected, etc.).

What antibiotic is prescribed for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes?

The choice of antibiotic for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes is determined by the causative agent of the disease. In case of an infectious-inflammatory process caused by a specific microflora (tuberculosis, syphilis, etc.), treatment is prescribed according to developed regimens.

In case of nonspecific inflammation, it is recommended to test the sensitivity of the pathogen to antibiotics. The fact is that many strains (varieties) of opportunistic microorganisms (especially staphylococci) develop resistance to antibiotics.

The sample is easy to take if there is a gate of infection (infected wound, boil, acute tonsillitis, etc.). In the absence of an open source of infection (healed wound), and before receiving the test results, antibiotics that have proven their effectiveness against nonspecific microflora are prescribed.

In cases where the antibiotic does not have the desired effect (there are no signs of clinical improvement), another medication is prescribed. Of course, all medications for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes are prescribed by a doctor, taking into account contraindications.

Is it possible to apply compresses?

Compresses for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes are used in the complex treatment of the initial stage of acute lymphadenitis. In case of suppuration, they are strictly contraindicated, since they contribute to the spread of infection throughout the body.

An absolute contraindication to this type of procedure is malignant neoplasms (metastases to the lymph node, lymphoma), so if the lymph nodes are enlarged and inflamed, you should never self-medicate.

Treatment of enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes using compresses is carried out on the recommendation and under the supervision of a doctor.

Is ichthyol ointment and Vishnevsky ointment used for enlargement and inflammation?
lymph nodes?

Vishnevsky ointment has pronounced antiseptic properties (destroys microorganisms) and has a mild irritant effect on receptors, helping to increase the speed of regeneration processes.

The drug is used in combination with other medical measures in the treatment of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in cases where the cause of the pathology is the existence of long-term non-healing wounds, abrasions, trophic ulcers or bedsores. The ointment is applied to the affected surfaces that have become the gateway to infection. In the case of chronic inflammation, therapy of the primary lesion is essentially a treatment of lymphadenopathy.

Ichthyol ointment is a rather weak antiseptic, but has a pronounced anti-inflammatory and soothing effect, so it is often used for local treatment in the initial stage of acute enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by a nonspecific infection.

Local treatment is necessarily supplemented with antibiotic therapy; drugs and dosage regimens are prescribed by the doctor after an examination.

The child has symptoms of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear. Which doctor should I contact? Are there any traditional treatments?

Enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear is one of the important diagnostic signs of rubella, so it is best to immediately contact an infectious disease specialist.

Of course, this is not the only possible diagnosis. The parotid lymph nodes receive tissue fluid from the temporal region of the head, the auricle and the external auditory canal, so enlargement and inflammation of the lymph node behind the ear may indicate infections of the scalp (boils, wounds) or acute or chronic inflammation of the external auditory canal (this pathology occurs quite often in children).

In a healthy person, lymph nodes are not visible in the neck. Upon palpation (palpation), it is possible to detect these important elements of the immune system only in the groin, in the armpits and under the lower jaw. They increase when various health problems arise.

When the transverse size exceeds 1 cm, they are no longer difficult to palpate or even see through the skin. Whatever causes the lymph nodes to become enlarged, the condition is called lymphadenopathy. The development of this syndrome in the neck area always requires attention and, most often, qualified treatment.

Development mechanism and types

Very simply, lymph nodes are unique filters of the lymphatic system, which are also the most important structures of the immune system. Immunocompetent cells mature in them, and captured foreign particles (antigens) are comprehensively studied, which allows lymphocytes to produce specific antibodies.

The entry of foreign tissue into a node is an irritant to the immune system. In response to this, the lymphoid tissue begins to work intensively and, accordingly, grow.

A condition in which the volume of a lymph node increases is called hyperplasia.

This reaction is not specific. That is, it can occur against the background of many pathological processes. Most often, lymph node hyperplasia accompanies:

• Stimulation of the immune response by a variety of non-microbial factors.
• Infectious diseases (acute or chronic).
• Tumors of the hematopoietic or lymphoid systems.
• Metastases of malignant neoplasms.

Any of these pathological conditions can cause hyperplasia of lymphoid tissue. Such a symptom can appear in several places of the body that are distant from each other (for example, the groin and elbow bends), and then they speak of generalized lymphadenopathy. An increase in only the cervical group or even a single node is called regional lymphadenopathy.

Cervical lymphadenopathy can be either isolated or observed against the background of a generalized process.

Anatomical features

Lymph from several parts of the body is collected and filtered. In accordance with the paths of outflow and inflow, the following groups of cervical lymph nodes are distinguished:

• Anterior superficial.
• The front ones are deep.
• Lateral (lateral) superficial.
• Side deep.

Depending on their location and depth, they filter lymph from different places: ENT organs, oral cavity, tongue, thyroid gland and others. Isolated pathology in one of these structures leads to local hyperplasia of the cervical nodes.

Systemic diseases that affect several parts of the body or the entire body are accompanied by generalized lymphadenopathy.

Regional processes

Cervical nodes most often enlarge due to bacterial or viral infections. Much less often, isolated cervical hyperplasia is a symptom of autoimmune or oncological processes.

Any inflammatory changes in the areas of lymph outflow cause a response from the cervical nodes. In the case of infection, so-called reactive lymphadenopathy is observed: in this case, the node itself is not affected, but its tissue grows in response to the influence of the infectious agent. Thus, local hyperplasia is often observed with:

• Scarlet fever.
• Diphtheria.
• Cat scratch disease (felinosis).
• Tuberculosis.
• Syphilis.
• Tularemia.
• Caries.
• Angina.
• Acute and chronic viral diseases.
• Fungal infections of the oral cavity and upper respiratory tract.

The list does not include all infectious diseases in which hyperplasia of the cervical lymph nodes is noted.

The rapid development of hyperplasia is observed during acute infections (tonsillitis, diphtheria, scarlet fever). Often such diseases are accompanied by pain in the area of ​​the affected lymph nodes. General symptoms are usually observed: fever, sore throat, cough and others.

The nodes slowly and imperceptibly enlarge during subacute and chronic processes (borelliosis, syphilis, tuberculosis). In such cases, we are not talking about reactive hyperplasia: there is a proliferation of the pathogen inside the node, which may ultimately completely lose its functionality. Moreover, the affected lymph node itself becomes a source of infection (typical of tuberculosis) and surgical intervention is required to remove it.

Symptoms of hyperplasia, even with the same pathology, can occur differently in different periods of the disease.

Knowing this, changes in the size of the lymph nodes can be used to indirectly assess the dynamics of the underlying disease and the effectiveness of the prescribed therapeutic regimen.

Systemic diseases

This category mainly includes autoimmune disorders. Diseases of the connective tissue or blood system, one way or another, always affect the condition of the lymphoid tissue. Lymphadenopathy of the neck may be one of the symptoms of:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus.
• Storage diseases (amyloidosis).
• Sarcoidosis.

The volume of the cervical lymph nodes can increase within different limits: from 1 to 5 cm or more. The common thing is that there are no pain symptoms. To the touch, the consistency of the nodes either does not change, or they become dense. They can remain moderately mobile or adhere to each other and to surrounding tissues, forming packets.

Reliable diagnosis of systemic diseases is impossible without the use of laboratory and instrumental methods. Treatment is long-term and requires consistency and control.

Oncological processes

Everything in the human body is interconnected, especially when it comes to liquid tissues – blood and lymph. Therefore, most often the cervical lymph nodes enlarge in two cases:

1. Introduction of metastases from adjacent or distant tumors.
2. Hemoblastoses are malignant or chronic diseases of the blood and hematopoietic system.

In medicine, cases of distant metastasis to the cervical lymph nodes of breast cancer, meninges, and other organs have been described.

Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in diseases of the hematopoietic system. Acute leukemia affects the bone marrow, changing the leukocyte composition of the blood. The lymphoid tissue of the nodes increases in response, trying to compensate for the insufficient maturity of diseased cells.

Under the influence of treatment, leukemia can become chronic. During remission, the cervical nodes usually return to normal. Their repeated increase may be the first symptom of an exacerbation.

Possible complications

Infectious diseases in one of the course variants can cause acute inflammation of lymphoid tissue. In this case, they already talk about cervical lymphadenitis. The lymph node becomes painful, the skin over it turns red. If no therapeutic measures are taken, there is a risk of developing dangerous cellulitis of the neck.

Some indolent infections, metastases and systemic diseases lead to gluing of the cervical lymph nodes into conglomerates. Then, even after recovery, the help of a surgeon may be required.

Childhood

Immature children's immunity is not able to adequately respond to external stimuli. First of all, this applies to viral and microbial diseases. Unvaccinated children are at great risk from the most dangerous disease - diphtheria. With this disease, the anterior cervical lymph nodes are often enlarged.

In practice, we have to deal with acute streptococcal tonsillitis (tonsillitis). Among the “slow” infections, infectious mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr disease) is often encountered. Systemic diseases, such as, are also characteristic of childhood. It must be remembered that recently the oncological processes have become significantly “rejuvenated”.

An isolated increase in even a single node on a child’s neck may indicate severe systemic diseases. Therefore, lymphadenopathy in children should in no case be ignored.

Diagnostic measures

You should always remember that enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are only a symptom of a disease. It can be very difficult to detect the source or cause of this phenomenon even in specialized medical institutions, and without instrumental and laboratory tests it is simply impossible.

A sample diagnostic list includes:

• General blood analysis. They look for changes in cellular composition, ESR.
• Biochemical research makes it possible to detect protein metabolism disorders and proteins specific to certain diseases.
• Analysis for antigens to viruses and malignant cells.
• or computed tomography.
• A puncture biopsy of the affected node provides the most valuable diagnostic data.

Puncture of an enlarged lymph node allows you to take a piece of tissue for histological examination. Often, only such a study allows one to distinguish metastasis from hemoblastosis.

However, even these studies may not make it possible to quickly make an accurate diagnosis. Then additional methods are used, which must be selected by the attending physician.

Therapeutic measures

The ultimate goal of any treatment is recovery. When the cervical nodes become enlarged, it is necessary first of all to find and then eliminate the cause that caused the appearance of this symptom. Note how different mechanisms may underlie a particular disease.

Acute infectious diseases require consultation with a physician and the prescription of antimicrobial or antiviral drugs. In case of severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous drips are indicated.

Cytostatics and hormones are widely used in the treatment of systemic connective tissue diseases. Ill-considered self-administration can cause severe adverse reactions and provoke the development of complications. In infectious processes, they are often simply contraindicated.

Effective treatment of tumors is unlikely without the use of surgical practices. Hemoblastoses also require special chemotherapy regimens and constant monitoring.

We must not forget about reactive changes in the lymph nodes, which simply accompany pathology not related to blood or lymph. The size of the lymph nodes returns to normal only after eliminating this cause, whatever it may be.

Therefore, if “bumps” or other rounded lumps appear in the neck area, you must immediately contact a doctor for a qualified examination, laboratory diagnosis and adequate treatment.