Lymphadenopathy overview: Difference between revisions
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==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
Lymphadenopathy | '''Lymphadenopathy''' (also known as "enlarged lymph nodes") refers to [[lymph nodes]] which are abnormal in size, number or consistency. Common causes of lymphadenopathy are [[infection]], [[autoimmune]] disease, or [[malignancy]]. Lymphadenopathy may be classified according to distribution into 2 groups: generalized lymphadenopathy and localized lymphadenopathy. The pathogenesis of lymphadenopathy is characterized by the inflammation of lymph nodes. This process is primarily due to an elevated rate of trafficking of [[lymphocytes]] into the node from the blood, exceeding the rate of outflow from the node. Lymph nodes may also be enlarged secondarily as a result of the activation and proliferation of antigen-specific T and [[B cells]] (clonal expansion). Lymphadenopathy is very common, the estimated incidence of lymphadenopathy among children in the United States ranges from 35%- 45%. Patients of all age groups may develop lymphadenopathy. Lymphadenopathy is more commonly observed among children. Common complications of lymphadenopathy, may include: [[Abscess|abscess formation]], [[superior vena cava syndrome]], and [[intestinal obstruction]]. Diagnostic criteria for [[malignant]] lymphadenopathy, may include: node > 2 cm, node that is draining, hard, or fixed to underlying tissue, atypical location (e.g. [[supraclavicular]] node), associated risk factors (e.g. [[HIV AIDS|HIV]] or [[Tuberculosis|TB]]), fever and/or weight loss, and [[splenomegaly]]. On the other hand, diagnostic criteria for [[benign]] lymphadenopathy, may include: node < 1 cm, node that is mobile, soft-or tender, and is not fixed to underlying tissue, typical location (e.g. supraclavicular node), no associated risk factors, and palpable and painful enlargement. Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of lymphadenopathy may include elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), mild neutropenia, and [[leukocytosis]]. There is no treatment for lymphadenopathy; the mainstay of therapy is treating the underlying condition. | ||
==Pathophysiology== | ==Pathophysiology== | ||
Lymph nodes are part of the immune system. As such, they are most readily palpable when fighting infections. Infections can either originate from the organs that they drain or primarily within the lymph node itself, referred to as [[lymphadenitis]]. | Lymph nodes are part of the immune system. As such, they are most readily palpable when fighting infections. Infections can either originate from the organs that they drain or primarily within the lymph node itself, referred to as [[lymphadenitis]]. | ||
Revision as of 22:01, 21 January 2019
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Raviteja Guddeti, M.B.B.S. [2]
Overview
Lymphadenopathy (also known as "enlarged lymph nodes") refers to lymph nodes which are abnormal in size, number or consistency. Common causes of lymphadenopathy are infection, autoimmune disease, or malignancy. Lymphadenopathy may be classified according to distribution into 2 groups: generalized lymphadenopathy and localized lymphadenopathy. The pathogenesis of lymphadenopathy is characterized by the inflammation of lymph nodes. This process is primarily due to an elevated rate of trafficking of lymphocytes into the node from the blood, exceeding the rate of outflow from the node. Lymph nodes may also be enlarged secondarily as a result of the activation and proliferation of antigen-specific T and B cells (clonal expansion). Lymphadenopathy is very common, the estimated incidence of lymphadenopathy among children in the United States ranges from 35%- 45%. Patients of all age groups may develop lymphadenopathy. Lymphadenopathy is more commonly observed among children. Common complications of lymphadenopathy, may include: abscess formation, superior vena cava syndrome, and intestinal obstruction. Diagnostic criteria for malignant lymphadenopathy, may include: node > 2 cm, node that is draining, hard, or fixed to underlying tissue, atypical location (e.g. supraclavicular node), associated risk factors (e.g. HIV or TB), fever and/or weight loss, and splenomegaly. On the other hand, diagnostic criteria for benign lymphadenopathy, may include: node < 1 cm, node that is mobile, soft-or tender, and is not fixed to underlying tissue, typical location (e.g. supraclavicular node), no associated risk factors, and palpable and painful enlargement. Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of lymphadenopathy may include elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), mild neutropenia, and leukocytosis. There is no treatment for lymphadenopathy; the mainstay of therapy is treating the underlying condition.
Pathophysiology
Lymph nodes are part of the immune system. As such, they are most readily palpable when fighting infections. Infections can either originate from the organs that they drain or primarily within the lymph node itself, referred to as lymphadenitis.
Epidemiology and Demographics
The estimated incidence of lymphadenopathy in children in the United States ranges from 35%- 45%. It is more common in the pediatric population. Race and gender have no predilection in lymphadenopathy incidence.
Diagnosis
Other Imaging Findings
Positron emission tomography (PET) is used to evaluate clinically diagnosed lymphadenopathy.
Treatment
Surgery
Surgical care involves open biopsy or aspiration of the lymph node and its removal.
Primary Prevention
Good general health and hygiene are helpful in the prevention of any infection.