Lymphadenopathy is a condition in which the lymph nodes increase in size. Such pathological changes indicate serious illness, which progresses in the body (often of an oncological nature). To make an accurate diagnosis, several laboratory and instrumental analyzes. 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;
- injuries and illnesses connective tissue;
- serum sickness (effect of medications);
- fungus;
- infectious diseases that depress immune system.
The child most often develops lymphadenopathy abdominal cavity. 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, one can observe additional symptoms. 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 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. Symptoms are not expressed, painful sensations No.
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. Establish the exact reasons for the formation of such pathological process possible only after a complete diagnosis.
Abdominal lymphadenopathy
Enlarged nodes in the abdominal cavity indicate 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 such a plan does not bring the desired results or a pathology of unknown pathogenesis develops, then surgical intervention- 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 it can be assumed benign education. However, almost any benign process may develop 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 extraneous 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 cavity chest. 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 eyes eyeball;
- hoarseness (more often observed during the chronic stage of development);
- headaches, noise in the head;
- heavy passage of food.
In some cases, cyanosis of the face and swelling of the veins in the neck may be observed. If the disease has chronic stage 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 to make such a diagnosis yourself, one by one primary signs, not worth it under any circumstances.
Simultaneously with the enlargement of the lymph nodes of the lungs, the same pathological process may form in the neck and mediastinum. Clinical picture is this:
- 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 children preschool age and teenagers. As shown medical practice, 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 an arm injury or 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 in a timely manner, then the chances of complete cure from breast cancer increase significantly.
Diagnostics
Diagnostic methods depend on the location of the pathology. To prescribe the correct course of treatment, you need not only to 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 folk remedies may be appropriate with the permission of a physician 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 correct lifestyle, monitor your health and consult a doctor in a timely manner, you can minimize the risk of progression of dangerous illnesses.
Pulmonary lymphadenopathy is not inherently separate disease- This pathological condition, which is characterized by a significant increase in the lymph nodes located in the pleura. It can be caused by many reasons, each of which requires separate treatment.
Interestingly, sometimes doctors cannot determine why the lymph nodes are enlarged and then a diagnosis of “pulmonary lymphadenopathy of unknown origin” is made.
Possible reasons
Size of lymph nodes different people can vary greatly: it is purely individual and depends not only on a person’s gender and age, but also on where he lives, where he works, and how he eats. In medicine, it is generally accepted that nodes not exceeding one and a half centimeters in length or width are the norm for an adult.
Their increase can be caused by reasons that can be divided into two large groups:
- Tumor nature. Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the lungs occurs either as a result of damage by a malignant tumor directly lymphatic system, or as a result of metastases entering it.
- Non-tumor nature. It occurs either due to infection or due to long-term use of medications.
Each option requires separate treatment and is characterized by specific symptoms. All of them should be considered separately.
Tumor
A malignant tumor is the first thing a doctor will think about when he sees a person at an appointment who has enlarged lymph nodes in the lungs and who has no signs of an infectious disease. Moreover, there are three main options.
- Lymphoma. This is the name of several cancers that can also be called “cancer of the lymphatic system.” All of them are characterized by the presence of one large tumor, from which metastases and affected cells spread throughout the body. All of them are accompanied by an increase in temperature, severe weakness, headaches, muscle and joint pain. The lymph nodes become enlarged, the patient develops a painful dry cough, which is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath when trying to exercise physical activity. As pulmonary lymphadenopathy progresses, the patient begins to complain of heart pain and difficulty breathing. The outcome depends on the stage at which treatment was started - but most patients survive for at least five years after diagnosis. Interestingly, there are more than thirty diseases grouped under the “lymphoma” group.
- Lymphocytic leukemia. For a long time this cancer affecting Bone marrow, circulatory and lymphatic systems was considered a disease of children, since it mainly affected children from two to four. But in Lately it is increasingly found in adults. It manifests itself as lymphadenopathy, including the lungs, weakness, loss of appetite and, as a result, weight. As it progresses, the patient develops anemia, his heart begins to hurt, and breathing difficulties appear. Patients without treatment do not live longer three years, with treatment they can live more than ten - it all depends on individual characteristics.
- Metastatic lesion. Arises as a result of progress malignant formation, located close to the lungs. Lymphadenopathy often results from cancer of the lung, esophagus, stomach, colon, or breast. Moreover, the fact that metastases penetrate the lymph nodes means that the cancer is already at the third or fourth stage, and, therefore, it will be difficult to treat, and the prognosis will not be favorable.
If the enlargement of the lymph nodes is caused by a malignant tumor in the body, the following treatment methods are used:
- Immunotherapy. Increases immunity and allows the body to actively fight.
- Radiation therapy. Destroys cancer cells using radiation. It is used with caution, as it has an extremely negative effect on the body as a whole.
- Surgery. Removes tumors and affected parts from the body.
- Symptomatic therapy. Helps cope with symptoms.
If the cancer recedes, so does the hilar lymphadenopathy. The main thing is to notice the disease on time and start treatment as early as possible.
Infectious lesion
Infection is the most common reason, which causes lymphadenopathy of the hilar lymph nodes of the lungs. It can be caused by a wide variety of pathogens, which affects how it will manifest itself and how optimistic the prognosis will be.
Pulmonary lymphadenopathy occurs if the patient:
- Tuberculosis. Russia is considered a country unfavorable for tuberculosis, therefore it is quite easy to become infected with it, even without visiting dispensaries or intentionally contacting patients. Many of its forms lead to pulmonary lymphadenopathy: from primary, which affects the lungs directly, to indirect forms that specifically affect the lymph nodes. Tuberculosis is characterized by pain, excruciating wet cough, increased temperature - other symptoms depend on the specific form.
Interestingly, tuberculosis is curable, but requires active therapy: it is used to treat special antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, mucolytic agents. A lot of attention is paid to improving immunity - the best option there will be a sanatorium for the patient, where he can go for walks fresh air, rest and stick to the regime.
- Viral hepatitis. Most often this is hepatitis C, which, although it affects the liver, is characterized by an inflammatory process that affects the entire body. Most often it occurs with a minimum of specific symptoms: the patient experiences mediastinal pulmonary lymphadenopathy, cough, weakness and fatigue. Sometimes my head hurts. As a result, the patient mistakes the illness for a cold and carries it on his feet. Only a tenth show signs of jaundice, followed by cirrhosis of the liver.
- Sarcoidosis. It is characterized by the formation of local foci of inflammation in the lungs - granulomas. At the first stage, it is manifested exclusively by enlarged lymph nodes, after which symptoms appear: the temperature rises to thirty-seven point five, fatigue and weakness appear, the patient suffers from a dry cough and chest pain, he has a headache and lacks appetite.
- HIV. It is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus and the consequences can be described as a permanent, sustainable decrease in immunity. At the same time, pulmonary lymphadenopathy is one of the stages that most infected people go through.
Interestingly, if the patient does not have malignant tumors or any infectious diseases based on the results of the studies, the doctor will begin to suspect he has HIV and will conduct the necessary tests. You can live with HIV, but there is no cure.
Pulmonary lymphadenopathy is a condition that accompanies most deeply penetrating infectious lesions. It accompanies pneumonia, rubella, brucellosis, herpes and other diseases. For precise definition careful diagnosis is required.
Drug-induced damage
Certain groups of drugs that require long-term use can cause an immune response, which, in particular, manifests itself in pulmonary lymphadenopathy. Among them:
- Antibiotics. Among the many side effects Antibiotics also have this – they can cause pulmonary lymphadenopathy. That is why they are prescribed with such caution, especially to people whose bodies are already weakened.
- Antihypertensive action. Take drugs of this group with increased blood pressure to reduce it. Their side effects include lymphadenopathy.
- Antimetabolites. Drugs in this group are needed to slow down or completely stop certain biochemical processes. They are used if a patient is diagnosed with a malignant tumor at an early stage.
- Anticonvulsants. Are used in the most different situations to prevent a simple spasm from turning into a convulsion - some of them are also used for epilepsy. They have many side effects and pulmonary lymphadenopathy is one of them.
Enlarged lymph nodes due to medications are standard for pulmonary diseases: dry cough, slight shortness of breath, possible change in voice timbre. If you do not notice it in time, the patient may develop heart pain or work problems. gastrointestinal tract– if the nodes grow so large that they begin to put pressure not only on the lungs, but also on other organs.
If, during a preventive examination of a patient who is constantly taking a certain drug, the doctor notices that the paratracheal lymph nodes are enlarged, he should change it to another one.
This is why it is so important, even after receiving a prescription for medication, to continue to visit a doctor from time to time - he will be able to check and track the onset of the pathological process before symptoms appear.
Diagnostics
The most difficult thing, if a patient has lymphadenopathy - in the root of the right lung, in the root of the left, in the pleura - is to determine what exactly caused it. There are many options, so diagnosis must be careful and thorough. It usually includes methods that do not require any equipment:
- Anamnesis collection. The doctor asks the patient if he has had symptoms and, if so, for how long. Does he have allergies, did his relatives have similar diseases. Chemon is sick at a specific moment and what he was sick with a long time ago.
- Palpation and inspection. If the disease has progressed, you can notice the asymmetry of the chest and feel protruding lymph nodes.
Instrumental methods that are carried out in rooms with special equipment:
- X-ray. It is performed in two versions - front and side. Allows you to see how the lymph nodes are located and how much larger they are than normal size.
- Tomography. It allows you to get an even more accurate picture than an x-ray; in addition, you can see not only the nodes themselves, but also how pulmonary lymphadenopathy affected the tissue.
- Fibrobronchoscopy and fibrogastroscopy. A special device is inserted into the esophagus or trachea, allowing the doctor to assess the condition of the epithelium from the inside, as closely as possible. Allows you to distinguish damage to the bronchi from damage to the gastrointestinal tract. The procedure is considered unpleasant, but it is extremely informative - and all discomfort goes away in a few minutes.
Laboratory studies that require the collection of body particles for several days and allow them to be examined in as much detail as possible:
- General tests of urine, blood and feces. They allow you to get an idea of the state of the body and identify the presence of an inflammatory process in it.
- Tests for specific infections: HIV, hepatitis, syphilis and others. They allow you to determine whether there is an infectious pathogen in the patient’s blood.
- Tests for tuberculosis. They allow you to find out whether there is a tuberculosis bacillus in the patient’s blood.
- Biopsy. It allows you to analyze tissue from a lymph node to find out whether it contains specific cancer cells that indicate the presence of a tumor.
The most unpleasant thing is that pulmonary mediastinal lymphadenopathy is a disease that can be completely asymptomatic. Best advice how to avoid it is to visit a doctor regularly for preventive examination at least once a year.
Then the disease will be detected on time and treatment will be especially effective.
The lymphatic system is part vascular system human and performs several functions, including participation in metabolism, cleaning body tissues by neutralizing bacteria, foreign particles, etc., as well as in the functioning of the immune system (produces lymphocytes). Consists of lymphatic capillaries, vessels, ducts and lymph nodes.
An increase in the size of the lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) is a symptom of a number of diseases, different in their cause, clinical manifestations, prognosis, diagnostic and treatment methods, therefore differential diagnosis can be quite complicated. Since enlarged lymph nodes are caused by for various reasons , then patients with such a symptom, having first seen a therapist, can later be examined by doctors of various specialties (oncologists, infectious disease specialists, hematologists, etc.). Lymphadenitis (inflammation of the lymph nodes) may be the underlying disease (there is a history of purulent wounds
- or severe inflammatory processes) or indicate the presence of serious infectious diseases. In this case, there are secondary symptoms:
- Increased temperature of the whole body (can last for quite a long time).
- Sudden weight loss.
- Heavy sweating.
- Enlargement of the spleen.
Enlargement of the liver.
Lymphadenopathy can affect nodes throughout the body or only in certain areas. Local lymphadenopathy is most common. With this form, mainly 1-2 lymph nodes in a certain area of the body enlarge.
Regional lymphadenopathy is an increase in several lymphatic connections. In the generalized form of the disease, an increase in nodes occurs in more than three areas of the human body. Such damage is possible with certain infectious diseases. Most often, patients with HIV, tuberculosis, and toxoplasmosis suffer from this form of lymphadenitis. Lymphadenitis in children and adults can occur in acute and chronic forms. Symptoms usually pronounced. The patient experiences swelling of the affected parts of the body, pain in the lymph nodes, and a sharp rise in body temperature. Chronic form The disease is characterized by the absence of symptoms. In rare cases, minor painful sensations appear in the area of enlarged lymph nodes. Sharp increase lymph nodes occurs mainly in children. Adults are less susceptible to this symptom.
Painful sensations in the affected areas can be caused by hemorrhage or necrosis. If the patient does not feel pain, this does not mean that he does not have a tumor.
Diagnosis of the disease
First of all, the doctor performs a complete examination of the patient. If a patient complains of damage to the cervical lymph nodes, then first of all he is prescribed a detailed blood test. Testing for hepatitis and HIV is mandatory. For productive diagnosis, an ultrasound of the abdomen and an x-ray of the thoracic region are required.
In addition to the fact that treatment and diagnosis of the disease will be based on test results, there are a number of no less important factors. First of all, age is taken into account. The child may have the disease infectious nature. The older the patient, the greater the likelihood that he has a chronic form of the disease. Lymphadenitis in adults under 35 years of age is most often caused by the presence of a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. In patients over 40 years of age, such symptoms may indicate the development of cancer.
An important point in making a diagnosis is determining the size of the lymph nodes. Of course, it is impossible to name the type of disease based on how enlarged the nodes are. But if in children they are enlarged to 2 cm or more, treatment should begin immediately. An important role is played by the nature of changes in the node (its soreness, consistency and mobility).
Cervical lymphadenitis is accompanied by painful sensations. However, if the patient does not have severe pain, this does not mean at all that the inflammatory process is absent. There may simply be other reasons for this.
Diagnosis can be significantly easier with a localized form of the disease.
If the cause of lymphadenitis has been discovered, it becomes easier to find the inflamed node. For example, if the body is affected by an infectious disease that is sexually transmitted, swollen lymph nodes will be located in the groin area.
Principles of treatment
Lymphadenitis in children and adults can be caused various factors. Trying to determine the cause of the disease on your own is useless. Symptoms of the disease may vary from patient to patient, so only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis. When he pinpoints the causes that provoke the disease, full treatment can begin.
The first step is to eliminate the cause that caused the enlarged lymph nodes. For example, with a viral etiology, the disease cervical lymphadenitis passes after the destruction of the causative agent of the disease (that is, the virus). If the infectious disease cannot be treated quick treatment, lymphadenopathy can torment the patient for a long time.
Inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes is treated by medication, but if therapeutic method treatment does not help, the doctor may prescribe surgery. Through surgery, the affected lymph node is removed from the patient's body. To accurately examine the damaged area, the doctor may prescribe a biopsy. During treatment, the patient is prescribed medications that enhance immunity.
Lymphadenitis in children requires immediate medical intervention and eliminating the root cause of the disease. In most cases, patients are prescribed standard course treatment. It includes medications that relieve pain, as well as antibiotics and drugs that fight infection. The patient is prescribed various anti-inflammatory medications.
Lymphadenitis in children is treated with special cold compresses that are applied to the affected area.
In most cases, lymphadenopathy is treated quickly and painlessly, because the causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes are most often herpes, rhinitis or pharyngitis. A short course of medication is usually enough to completely eliminate the disease.
Popular folk remedies
There are methods traditional medicine, without which the treatment of inflammation of the lymph nodes cannot be done. In order to relieve inflammation, you need to add 50 g of echinacea alcohol tincture to 100 g of warm water. Mix the ingredients and wet a piece of cloth with the solution. Apply the compress to the inflamed nodes overnight. Alcohol tincture of Echinacea can be used internally. To do this, add 30 drops of tincture to 100 g of warm water and drink 3 times a day before meals.
To eliminate inflammation, use young pine shoots. Place 500 g of shoots in a container, fill them with 4 liters cold water and put on fire. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Let the broth boil for at least 2 hours. Once ready, remove the container from the heat and strain the infusion through cheesecloth. Pour it into another bowl and add 1 tbsp to the broth. l. Sahara. Place the mixture on the stove and cook for 2-3 hours. Cool the finished product. Take the medicine 2 times a day after meals, 1 tbsp. l. The course of treatment should not exceed 1.5 months.
When fighting inflammation, it is necessary to make special compresses that will help shrink the lymph nodes. Mix 2 tbsp. l. herbs St. John's wort, walnut leaves, mistletoe and yarrow. Place the container with the mixture on the stove, pour 2 tbsp. l. water and cook until boiling. After this, reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for another 10 minutes. Cool the infusion to room temperature and strain through cheesecloth. Soak a piece of cloth in the broth and apply compresses to the inflamed joints overnight. Carry out the procedure for 14 days.
Rare folk recipes
Such treatment methods are quite rare, so they are not always popular. But they are quite effective and will help get rid of swelling and inflammation in the lymph nodes. To prepare a compress, take a bunch of celandine, rinse it and chop it finely. You can even crush it to make a paste. Squeeze the juice from the celandine, take 1 tbsp. l. liquid and add it to 125 g of vodka or alcohol. Wrap the container with the infusion and place it in a dark, dry place. To make a compress, dampen a cloth hot water, and then - tincture of celandine.
Lymphadenopathy of the axillary lymph nodes usually indicates various diseases nearby organs. It is a proliferation of lymphoid tissue. A unilateral change in the size of formations is often observed.
Axillary lymphadenopathy is divided into the following types:
- localized;
- regional;
- generalized;
- acute;
- chronic;
- one- and two-sided;
- right- and left-sided;
- specific and nonspecific;
- purulent;
- reactive;
- axillary;
- malignant.
Let's look at each type of axillary lymphadenopathy in more detail.
By area and course of the lesion
Based on the area of damage, the following types of axillary lymphadenopathy are distinguished:
- localized, in which only one immune link is inflamed;
- regional, accompanied by an increase in several formations at once in one or two neighboring regions;
- generalized. Characteristically, 3 or more nodes are affected in separate areas of the body.
The localized form of pathology is more common than others. It accounts for more than 70% of cases. Most dangerous looking lymphadenopathy is considered generalized.
According to the course, acute and chronic forms of lymphadenopathy are distinguished. In the first case there are specific symptoms. Chronic form for a long time proceeds without manifestations.
Double sided
According to the localization features, the pathology is divided into unilateral and bilateral. The latter type is often found in women suffering from malfunction of the ovaries, since the immune links of these organs are interconnected with their axillary “brothers”. Unilateral localization of armpit lymphadenopathy sometimes indicates:
- breast carcinoma;
- lymphoma;
- brucellosis.
Double sided axillary lymphadenopathy often indicates sexually transmitted diseases and, as a rule, disappears after treatment.
Right-handed
Right-sided involvement of the axillary lymph nodes is classified as a separate category. The pathology is accompanied by pulling painful sensations in the area of the right armpit, feeling unwell and increased fatigue. The following stages of the process are distinguished:
- at the initial stage, pain is observed in the affected area, as well as weakness throughout the body, the formations retain normal consistency and move during palpation;
- after 3-4 days, tissue infiltration occurs, the glands merge with each other, as a result of which a bunch of grapes appears on the affected area, visible visually.
Specific
Based on the characteristics of the causative agent of the disease, specific and nonspecific axillary lymphadenopathy is distinguished. The latter type is a secondary deviation from the norm, developing against the background of other disorders. Specific lymphadenopathy of the armpit area is caused by pathogenic microorganisms. 
Purulent
The purulent form of axillary lymphadenopathy indicates a serious pathology in which the glands increase in size and hurt during palpation. All this is accompanied by swelling of adjacent tissues, discomfort when moving the limb, and fever. Groups of neighboring lymph nodes are often affected.
The purulent process is characterized by signs of intoxication ( headache, weakness, weakness). In this case, the lymph nodes involved in the pathology are visible to the naked eye. Symptoms mentioned require immediate medical attention and diagnostic procedures.
Reactive lymphadenopathy of the axillary region
Reactive axillary lymphadenopathy on the right or left occurs in response to the invasion of an infectious agent, allergic reaction or autoimmune disorders. Symptoms are mild or absent. Generalized forms are very rare.
Axillary
Pathological damage to the axillary lymph node of the axillary region, accompanied by inflammation, can be caused by the introduction into the body of microorganisms that provoke viral diseases, tuberculosis, as well as the activation of staphylococci, streptococci, etc.
With an increase in formation outside of inflammation, a tumor may be present, localized in the affected area. This phenomenon occurs with pain and fever.
Causes of lymphadenopathy of the axillary lymph nodes:
Malignant axillary lymphadenopathy
When cancer affects the lymph nodes, the following signs are observed:
- formations become hard to the touch and increase in size;
- the breast takes on a different shape, dents, unevenness and stretching appear on it;
- discharge from the nipples appears (light or mixed with blood);
- the skin in the nipple area becomes a different color, its sensitivity changes, and sometimes external manifestations, similar to eczema;
- observed night sweats and weight loss.
Causes of armpit lymphadenopathy
The most common causes of disorders of the lymph nodes in the axillary region are:
Signs of axillary lymphadenopathy
With adenopathy of the axillary lymph nodes on the right or left, the following symptoms are observed:
- an increase in the size of formations, acquiring the appearance of “bumps”;
- general malaise;
- increased sweating, mainly at night;
- rapid weight loss for no apparent reason;
- fever;
- skin rash;
- hepato- and splenomegaly;
- redness of the skin in the area of the glands;
- swelling of the immune parts and their soreness.
Diagnosis of pathology
First of all, palpation is performed to assess the size of the node. If an inflammatory process is suspected, other examinations and tests are indicated:
- taking UAC and OAM;
- blood test for tumor markers;
- carrying out biochemical analysis blood, serological tests for infections;
- performing radiography, ultrasound.
Self-examination technique
To detect any changes in the lymph nodes of the axillary region, you need to abduct your arm approximately 30 degrees. Further, if the right one is examined axilla, press with the straight fingers of your left hand on the armpit, and then perform a soft sliding scooping movement.
Normally, the formations are either not palpable or are palpable as small round glands measuring 5-10 mm, but pain does not occur. If you notice any enlargement, pain, thickening or any other discomfort, you should consult a doctor. Do not heat the affected area. This can lead to the spread of the pathological process.
Treatment of the disease
The axillary immune system reacts to diseases of neighboring organs. Adenopathy of these lymph nodes is treated based on the cause that led to its occurrence. If the pathology is infectious in nature, then the doctor recommends antiviral drugs or antibiotics. Malignant tumors eliminated by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as surgery.
Physiotherapeutic methods are used at the discretion of the specialist:
- Laser therapy, in which the body is influenced by light waves, as a result of which pain is relieved and the intensity of the inflammatory process is reduced.
- Galvanization, which consists in influencing soft fabrics small electric shock. The procedure is aimed at removing pain syndrome, restoration of tissues and nerve fibers.
In exceptional cases (usually with a purulent process), surgical intervention is performed, after which antibiotics are prescribed for prophylactic purposes.
Prevention
To prevent armpit lymphadenopathy you need to:
- observe the rules of personal hygiene;
- support normal level immunity;
- treat diseases in a timely manner;
- Immediately treat damaged skin with antiseptics.
Lymph nodes are components of the lymphatic system and perform protective and drainage functions. The lymph nodes They filter the liquid that is between the tissues and do not allow microorganisms and remnants of dead cells to enter the blood.
General characteristics of lymph nodes
At the start cancer Cancer cells settle in the lymph nodes. After some time, they multiply and a metastasis may form. This process takes place without inflammation in the tissues. The lymph nodes include lymphocytes and macrophages, which absorb large proteins, pathogenic microorganisms, their waste products, as well as particles of dead cells.
With an increased attack of infection, the immune system fails. If a large number of bacteria enter the lymph node, the number of lymphocytes increases, and as a result, the lymph node increases in size. The activity of the process depends on the degree of enlargement of the lymph nodes.
The tissue components of the human body, like lymph nodes, can withstand tumor degeneration.
Symptoms and differences Lymphadenopathy and Lymphadenitis
An enlarged lymph node, even in moderate quantities, signals disorders in the body, this symptom passes through various reasons. Lymphadenitis refers to the process of inflammation that occurs in the lymph nodes. Inflammation can affect one or all lymph nodes. In the body they act as a filter and are directly related to circulatory system. The type of infection determines which lymph node is inflamed. When hit pathogenic microflora into the body, it spreads throughout the body through blood and lymph and settles in the lymph nodes.
Do not confuse the concepts of lymphadenopathy with lymphadenitis, just because they sound similar. Lymphadenitis is a disease that occurs when inflammatory process in the lymph nodes, and Lymphadenopathy is a condition in which a reaction occurs that is not accompanied by inflammation.
Symptoms of lymphadenitis:
- a noticeable increase in the size of the lymph node;
- the occurrence of painful sensations when palpating;
- severe pain when the node is displaced;
- redness skin at the site of swelling;
- increased skin temperature over the lymph nodes.
This symptomatology is the most common. The lymph node acts as a barrier and prevents bacteria from entering the blood.
With lymphadenopathy, the lymph nodes are enlarged, and this is the only symptom. This condition significantly complicates neck turns and is somewhat in the way. In severe cases, the lymph nodes become very hard and are often called “stony”.
Lymphadenopathy can occur in advanced stages of cancer, HIV infection, which is in an active state and turns into AIDS. In this case, lymphadenopathy is called mediastinal.
Lymphadenitis is a condition that develops acutely and passes quickly. If the lymph nodes in the neck mediastinum are enlarged for a long time, and mild symptoms appear, then we can talk about the presence of lymphadenopathy.
Very often, lymph nodes react to viral infections.
In this case, there is no inflammatory process, and there is a slight reaction from the nodes.
Types of lymphadenopathy
If you suspect a pathological process in the lymphatic system, you need to pay attention to the following types of lymph nodes:
- occipital;
- parotid;
- cervical;
- inguinal;
- submandibular;
- axillary;
- subulnar.
Under normal conditions, the size of the lymph node should be less than one centimeter. The magnitude also depends on the location and personal characteristics of the organism. You can palpate the lymph nodes yourself and identify their enlargement. If pain occurs during palpation, they move under the skin and their tuberosity is noticeable, then these are signs of a pathological process. A specialist can make an accurate diagnosis after diagnostics and additional studies.
Depending on the degree of damage, the following forms are distinguished:
- local, in which one node is increased;
- regional, occurs when several groups increase;
- generalized – enlargement of more than 3 groups of lymph nodes.
According to the nature of the development of the process, acute and chronic forms are distinguished.
Causes of lymphadenopathy
Various diseases can provoke the development of lymphadenopathy:
- viral infections (ARV, HIV infection,);
- infectious diseases bacterial species(tuberculosis, toxocariasis);
- chlamydia;
- cancerous tumors;
Diagnosis of the disease
In case of inflammation of the neck nodes, the doctor conducts a general examination of the body and prescribes a blood test. The obligatory stage is testing for the presence of HIV and hepatitis.
Additionally, a chest x-ray is performed and ultrasonography belly.
The photo shows what enlarged lymph nodes in the neck look like After the diagnostics have been carried out and the diagnosis has been made, the doctor will select the necessary curative therapy. The age of the patient is taken into account; if it is a child, then there is a high probability that the cause is an infectious disease. In an adult, there is a high probability chronic course diseases. According to statistics, in patients over forty years of age, the reason for the enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck lies in the presence cancer. Children have an imperfect immune system, so they most often develop reactive lymphadenitis. Axillary in most cases occurs with breast cancer in women.
If the child has a lymph node within 2 centimeters, then treatment must begin immediately. Once the cause of lymphadenitis is identified, the lymph node is easy to find. In the presence of a sexually transmitted infectious disease, inguinal nodes right or left. This process is quite noticeable and easy to identify initial stage, abdominal pain occurs.
Treatment of lymphadenitis
Compulsory secondary symptom syphilis is regional lymphadenitis. Mesenteric occurs in children in the area of the mesentery, which supports the intestines.
Treatment of lymphadenitis directly depends on the cause, and this should be done by a qualified specialist. Many people do not understand the seriousness of the problem and try to cure themselves, postponing a visit to the doctor. This can lead to serious complications, including the development of a purulent infection.
Lymphodenopathy of the neck, which occurs after suffering respiratory or viral infection, goes away on its own and does not require any treatment. In rare cases, anti-inflammatory tablets are prescribed.
In advanced stages, when suppuration occurs in the lymph nodes, antibiotic therapy is required. Special ointments and taking vitamin complexes will help speed up the healing process. The patient is advised to drink plenty of fluids and stay warm, not to become overcooled. For cervical lymphadenopathy, before going outside in the cold season, you need to wrap your neck in a scarf. In cases where therapy does not bring positive result, surgical intervention is indicated. The doctor surgically opens the suppuration and carries out cleaning.
Possible complications
When the cervical lymph nodes become inflamed, the entire body suffers. From the neck, inflammation can easily spread to the lungs. With purulent lymphadenitis, purulent masses can enter the blood, causing sepsis and blood poisoning. When lymph flow is impaired, swelling occurs and elephantiasis develops due to the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues.
Preventive measures
After successful treatment of this disease, it is recommended to carefully monitor injuries and prevent infection. If a wound occurs, treatment with an antiseptic is necessary. Appearance characteristic symptoms signals the need for treatment. Personal hygiene will help prevent infection from entering the body. It is important to strengthen protective functions body to fight infections. Foods high in vitamin C will help you recover faster.
