Swollen Lymph Nodes Symptoms
Symptom Checker: Symptoms & Signs Index
Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
Gland swelling commonly refers to enlargement of the lymph glands, also known
as lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small rounded or bean-shaped masses of lymphatic
tissue surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue. Lymph glands (nodes) are
located in many places in the lymphatic system throughout the body. Lymph nodes
filter the lymphatic fluid and store special cells that can trap cancer cells or
bacteria that are traveling through the body in the lymph fluid. The lymph nodes
are critical for the body's immune response and are principal sites where many
immune reactions are initiated.
Groups of lymph nodes are found in the neck,
around the collarbone, in the armpit (axilla), and in the groin. Lymph nodes in
the groin region are referred to as inguinal lymph nodes. During a physical
examination your doctor may feel (palpate) these areas to look for
swollen or
enlarged lymph glands.
Swelling of the lymph glands is typically a result of
local or widespread inflammation, but sometimes enlarged lymph nodes are due to
cancer. Swollen lymph glands are referred to as lymphadenopathy. Inflammation of
a lymph node is referred to as lymphadenitis.
Other glands that are sometimes
perceptible when swollen are the tonsils, parotid glands, salivary glands, tear
(lacrimal) glands, and the thyroid gland.
REFERENCE:
Fauci, Anthony S., et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Professional, 2008.
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