Lymphadenitis

Lymphadenitis

Lymphadenitis (/ˌlɪmfədəˈnaɪtɪs/) is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the lymph nodes, which are vital components of the body's immune system.

Etymology

The term "Lymphadenitis" is derived from the Greek words "lymph" meaning "water", "aden" meaning "gland", and "itis" meaning "inflammation".

Definition

Lymphadenitis is an infection of the lymph nodes (also known as lymph glands), which are small, bean-shaped, soft nodules of tissue. The primary function of these nodes is to produce and store cells that fight infection and disease.

Causes

Lymphadenitis is usually caused by an infection that has spread to the lymph nodes from a skin, ear, nose, or eye infection. Other causes can include bacterial or viral infections, certain autoimmune diseases, and cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of lymphadenitis include swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes, fever, and in some cases, symptoms of the primary infection that caused the lymphadenitis.

Treatment

Treatment for lymphadenitis typically involves treating the underlying cause. This may include antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral drugs for viral infections, and chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancers.

Related Terms

• Lymph node
• Inflammation
• Immune system
• Bacterial infections
• Viral infections
• Autoimmune diseases
• Lymphoma
• Leukemia

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Lymphadenitis
• Wikipedia's article - Lymphadenitis

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