What is Lymphadenitis ?

Lymphadenitis is the inflammation of one or several lymph nodes.


CAUSE
Lymphadenitis may be caused by infections from various organisms, namely bacteria, viruses, protozoan, rickettsial, or fungal. In particular, the infection spreads to the lymph nodes of skin infections, ear, nose or eyes.


SYMPTOMS
Lymph nodes are infected will usually palpable enlarged and tender and painful. Sometimes the skin above it looks red and warm.


Diagnosis
Diagnosis based on symptoms. To help determine the cause, can do a biopsy (removal of tissue for examination under a microscope).


TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the causative organism. For bacterial infection, antibiotics are usually given by mouth (orally) or intravenously (through veins).

To help reduce the pain, the affected lymph nodes can be compressed warm. Usually if the infection has been treated, the glands will shrink slowly and the pain will disappear. Sometimes the enlarged glands remain hard and no longer feels soft to the touch.


PREVENTION
Maintaining health and hygiene can help prevent body infections.