Lymphadenitis is an infection of the lymph nodes (also called lymph glands). It is a common complication of certain bacterial infections.

Lymph node infection; Lymph gland infection; Localized lymphadenopathy

The lymph system is a network of lymph nodes, lymph ducts, lymph vessels, and organs that produce and move a fluid called lymph from tissues to the bloodstream. For more information on this part of the body, see lymph system.

The lymph glands, or nodes, are small structures that filter the lymph fluid. There are many white blood cells in the lymph nodes to help fight infection.

Lymphadenitis occurs when the glands become enlarged by swelling (inflammation), usually in response to bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The swollen glands are usually found near the site of an infection, tumor, or inflammation.

Lymphadenitis may occur after skin infections or other infections caused by bacteria such as streptococcus or staphylococcus. Sometimes it is caused by rare infections such as tuberculosis or cat scratch disease (Bartonella).

• Red, tender skin over lymph node
• Swollen, tender, or hard lymph nodes

Lymph nodes may feel rubbery if an abscess has formed.

The health care provider will perform a physical exam, which includes feeling your lymph nodes and looking for signs of injury or infection around any swollen lymph nodes.

A biopsy and culture of the affected area or node may reveal the cause of the inflammation. Blood cultures may reveal spread of infection to the bloodstream.

Lymphadenitis may spread within hours. Treatment should begin promptly.

Treatment may include:

• Analgesics (painkillers) to control pain
• Antibiotics to treat any infection
• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation
• Cool compresses to reduce inflammation and pain

Surgery may be needed to drain an abscess.

Prompt treatment with antibiotics usually leads to a complete recovery. However, it may take weeks, or even months, for swelling to disappear. The amount of time to recovery depends on the cause.

• Abscess formation
• Cellulitis (a skin infection)
• Fistulas (seen in lymphadenitis that is due to tuberculosis)
• Sepsis (bloodstream infection)

Call your health care provider or go to the emergency room if you have symptoms of lymphadenitis.

Good general health and hygiene are helpful in the prevention of any infection.

Armitage JO. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 174.

Pasternack MS, Swartz MN. Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis. In: Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, eds. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2009:chap 92.