Lymphadenitis
Lymphadenitis is the inflammation of lymph nodes, often occurring due to infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or cancer. This condition is particularly common in children, who may experience swelling in nodes located in the face, neck, collarbone, or under the jaw. The swelling may be accompanied by tenderness or a hard rubbery feel, and sometimes the skin may appear bruised or inflamed. The most prevalent causes include bacterial infections from the Mycobacterium species, including both tuberculous and nontuberculous types.
Diagnosis typically involves assessing symptoms alongside recent infection history, with further tests like biopsies or imaging scans as necessary. Treatment options vary based on the underlying cause and may include surgical removal of nodes, antibiotics, or simply monitoring the condition. While lymphadenitis cannot be prevented due to its various potential causes, seeking early medical attention is crucial for effective management and recovery. Understanding lymphadenitis can help individuals recognize symptoms and seek timely medical care.
Lymphadenitis
- ANATOMY OR SYSTEM AFFECTED: Immune system, lymph nodes, lymphatic system
Definition
Lymphadenitis is inflammation of a lymph node. The condition is common in children.
Causes
Lymphadenitis usually results from a bacterial infection but can also occur in response to a virus, fungus, or cancer. Lymph nodes filter infection and cancer cells, which are then drained by way of the lymphatic system, an interconnecting network of channels that move lymph fluid through the body to the blood. The nodes become inflamed in response to a buildup of bacteria or other inflammatory triggers. Lymphadenitis is commonly caused by members of the Mycobacterium species of bacteria, either tuberculosis-causing (tuberculous) or nontuberculous Mycobacterium. In children, infection with nontuberculous Mycobacterium is usually responsible for lymph node swelling; the bacteria are common in water, soil, and dairy products.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for lymphadenitis include recent viral, fungal, or bacterial infection or cancer. Recent infections caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria can result in lymphadenitis, even if the initial infection is successfully treated. Underlying chronic illness can predispose a person to lymphadenitis, but healthy people can also be affected.
Symptoms
Swelling of one or more lymph nodes is the primary symptom. The nodes may be painless or tender and feel rubbery or hard. The overlying skin may appear normal or may be bruised or inflamed. In children, infection with nontuberculous Mycobacterium results in inflammation of nodes in the face, neck (cervical), collarbone (clavicular), or under the jaw (submandibular), which may drain infectious fluid (pus) through the skin.
Screening and Diagnosis
Lymphadenitis can be diagnosed based on symptoms in persons who have had a recent infection in the area of the swollen node. If there is no known history of infection, a more thorough workup may be warranted. Common diagnostic procedures include biopsy (microscopic analysis) of lymph tissue following surgical removal (excision) of the lymph node and fine needle aspiration, a procedure in which a small needle is inserted into the node to remove lymph cells. A chest X-ray, a computed tomography (CT) scan, or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test may be performed to evaluate the area of the body containing the enlarged node.
Treatment and Therapy
Treatment may involve surgical excision of all involved nodes, an extended course of antibiotics, and simple observation for lymphadenitis to resolve on its own. Treatment decisions are made based on the cause of lymphadenitis, whether the lymph node or nodes can be removed with minimal scarring or damage to underlying nerves or blood vessels, and the potential benefit or risks of months-long antibiotic therapy. One should have any collection of pus (abscess) surgically drained.
Prevention and Outcomes
Based on the multitude of potential causes, lymphadenitis cannot be prevented. The primary concern should be early medical attention and treatment.
Bibliography
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Blake, Kati, and Daniel Murrell. "Lymph Node Inflammation (Lymphadenitis): Causes and More." Healthline, 17 Sept. 2018, www.healthline.com/health/lymphadenitis. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.
Harris, Robert L., et al. "Cervicofacial Nontuberculous Mycobacterium Lymphadenitis in Children: Is Surgery Always Necessary?" International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, vol. 73, 2009, pp. 1297-1301.
"Lymphadenitis." Johns Hopkins Medicine, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/lymphadenitis. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.
"Lymphatic Disorders." The Merck Manual Home Health Handbook, edited by Robert S. Porter, et al. 3rd ed., Merck Research Laboratories, 2009.
McDowell, Julie, and Michael Windelsprecht. The Lymphatic System. Greenwood Press, 2004.
Schmitt, D. B. "Swollen Lymph Nodes: Brief Version." Pediatric Advisor, edited by J. Burley, et al. Clinical Reference Systems, 2008.
Vyas, Jatin M., et al. "Lymphadenitis." MedlinePlus, 19 May 2023, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001301.htm. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.