Description Inflammation of the...
Description
Inflammation of the lymph glands and lymph channels. The most common cause is infection (especially, streptococcal or staphylococcal bacterial infection); cancer can also cause the disorder. The location of the affected gland(s) is usually associated with the site of the underlying infection, tumor, or inflammation.
Symptoms
Red streaks extending away from the infected area, throbbing pain along the affected area, fever, chills, general ill feeling, headache, loss of appetite, muscle aches.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A biopsy and culture of the affected lymph node or nearby tissue may reveal the cause of the inflammation. Blood cultures may also be performed to identify an infectious agent.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC)
Other Specific Tests: Blood culture, culture of biopsy tissue
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A biopsy and culture of the affected lymph node or nearby tissue may reveal the cause of the inflammation. Blood cultures may also be performed to identify an infectious agent.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC)
Other Specific Tests: Blood culture, culture of biopsy tissue
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Treatment
Treatment may include: oral antibiotics, pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), and hot moist compresses. Surgery may be needed to drain an abscess. If the infection is severe intravenous antibiotics may be administered.