Chronic lymphadenitis is the inflammation of a lymph node. The inflammation can last for a prolonged period of time. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system. This system fights and prevents infections. The lymph node’s job is to filter out unwanted substances, such as bacteria and viruses, and help eliminate them from the body.
Lymph nodes occur in clusters in the neck, arm pits, and groin. Chronic lymphadenitis may affect one node, several nodes in one area (regional), or nodes in many areas of the body (general).
The sooner chronic lymphadenitis is treated, the more favorable the outcome. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor immediately.
Lymph nodes normally swell when fighting off an infection. In cases of more serious infection, the swelling may be prolonged. Lymphadenitis is usually caused by an infection that has spread to the lymph nodes from a skin, ear, nose, or eye infection. Other causes of lymphadenitis include the following:
Lymph node inflammation may also be caused by circulating cancer cells.
A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors increase your chances of developing chronic lymphadenitis. If you have any of these risk factors, tell your doctor:
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to chronic lymphadenitis. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.
Symptoms include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include the following:
Treatment of chronic lymphadenitis depends on the cause. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Hot, moist compresses on the lymph nodes can help relieve pain.
Surgery may be necessary to drain abscesses (pockets of pus), if they occur.
To help reduce your chances of getting chronic lymphadenitis, take the following steps:
RESOURCES:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/
National Institutes of Health
US National Library of Medicine
http://www.nlm.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
BC Health Guide
http://www.bchealthguide.org
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html
References:
Lymphadenitis. Dr. Joseph F. Smith Medical Library website. Available at: http://www.chclibrary.org/micromed/00055540.html . Accessed July 14, 2005.
Lymphadenitis. The Merck Manual of Medical Information, 2nd Home Edition Online. Available at: http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec03/ch037/ch037c.html . Accessed July 14, 2005.
Lymphadenitis. The Merck Manual Online. Available at: http://www.merck.com/mrkshared/mmanual/section10/chapter112/112d.jsp . Accessed July 14, 2005.
Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis. University of Maryland Medical Center website. Available at: http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/001301.htm . Accessed July 14, 2005.
Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis. US National Library of Medicine website. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001301.htm . Accessed July 14, 2005.
The lymphatic system. American Medical Association website. Available at: http://www.medem.com/search/article_display.cfm?path=\\TANQUERAY\M_ContentItem&mstr=/M_ContentItem/ZZZG0S6CGJC.html&soc=AMA&srch_typ=NAV_SERCH . Accessed July 14, 2005.
Swollen lymph glands (lymphadenitis). The Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research website. Available at: http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/001301.htm . Accessed July 14, 2005.
Last reviewed September 2009 by Bridget Sinnott, MD, FACE
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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