What are lymph nodes?
Lymph nodes, also known as lymph glands, are small glands found throughout the body that are part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system consists of a network of organs and vessels that carries a fluid around the body between the tissues and the blood. The fluid contains white blood cells called lymphocytes.
The lymphatic system plays a vital role in the immune system, fighting disease and infection.
Functions of lymph nodes
Lymph nodes help fight disease:
- They filter lymph fluid.
- They trap any bacteria or viruses that pass through them.
- Lymphocytes destroy bacteria or viruses before they infect other parts of the body.
Pathologies that lymph nodes may suffer from
When lymph nodes become enlarged, it usually means they have been exposed to bacteria and viruses and are fighting an infection. Swollen lymph nodes may be caused by an underlying condition, such as a tumor.
Depending on which lymph nodes have become swollen, you can determine what the problem may be.
- Neck lymph nodes: These are usually enlarged in case of a cold or sore throat. In case of tumor or infection in the mouth, head or neck.
- Underarm nodes: These lymph nodes may become enlarged due to an injury or infection in the hands or arms. Other less common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the armpits include breast cancer and lymphoma.
- Groin lymph nodes: These lymph nodes are more likely to swell in case of infection or injury to the feet, legs, groin or genitals. Lymphoma, melanoma or testicular cancer are less common causes of swollen groin lymph nodes.
- Nodes of the clavicle: If the glands above the clavicle are enlarged, it is likely that there is an infection or lesion in the breast, neck, lungs or abdomen.
When is it necessary to see a specialist?
If the condition is of concern, a physician should be consulted; however, a visit to a specialist is particularly recommended if:
- The lymph nodes have been enlarged for more than two weeks.
- They are enlarged, but for no apparent reason, such as infection or injury.
- They are hard to the touch.
- Swollen lymph nodes are accompanied by fever.
Treatments for lymph node pathologies
Swollen lymph nodes caused by a virus may return to normal after the viral infection is cured. Antibiotics are not useful for treating viral infections. Treatment for swollen lymph nodes due to other causes depends on the cause itself:
- Infection: The most common treatment for swollen lymph nodes due to a bacterial infection is to give antibiotics.
- Immune disorders: If swollen lymph nodes are due to certain conditions, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, treatment is targeted to that condition.
- Cancer: Swollen lymph nodes due to cancer require cancer treatment, depending on the type. It may include surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.
Specialist who treats lymph node pathologies.
The specialist in charge of treating pathologies affecting the lymph nodes is the specialist in Internal Medicine or General Surgery.