تعريف
Chronic lymphadenitis is inflammation or infection of a lymph node for an extended time. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system. This system fights and prevents infections. The lymph node’s job is to filter out unwanted substances, such as bacteria and viruses, and help eliminate them from the body.
Lymph nodes occur in clusters in the neck, arm pits, and groin. Chronic lymphadenitis may affect one node, several nodes in one area, or nodes in many areas of the body.
The sooner chronic lymphadenitis is treated, the more favorable the outcome, depending on the cause. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor right away.
أسباب
Lymph nodes normally swell when fighting off an infection. In cases of more serious infection, the swelling may be prolonged. Lymphadenitis is usually caused by an infection that has spread to the lymph nodes from a skin, ear, nose, or eye infection. Other causes of lymphadenitis include:
- Infection with streptococcal or staphylococcal bacteria
- Tonsillitis
- HIV infection
- Genital herpes
- عدد كريات الدم البيضاء
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
- Leukemia or lymphoma
- فقر الدم المنجلي
- Kawasaki disease
عوامل الخطر
Factors that may increase your chance of developing chronic lymphadenitis include:
- Having one of the causes of lymphadenitis
- Close contact with someone who has one of the causes of lymphadenitis
- Age: 12 or younger
- Contact with animals, specifically cats, rats, or cow
الأعراض
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to chronic lymphadenitis. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions.
تشمل الأعراض ما يلي:
- Swollen, painful, tender, or hard lymph nodes/glands
- The skin over a node is red and warm to the touch
- Fever with the following symptoms:
- قشعريرة
- فقدان الشهية
- Heavy perspiration
- سرعة النبض
- General weakness
- صعوبة في البلع
- صعوبة في التنفس
- تصلب الرقبة
التشخيص
الطبيب سوف يسأل عن الأعراض والتاريخ الطبي. الفحص السريري سيتم القيام به.
Your bodily fluids and tissue may be tested. This can be done with:
- Complete blood cell (CBC) count
- Blood culture
- Biopsy of the lymph node
Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with ultrasound.
العلاج
Treatment of chronic lymphadenitis depends on the cause. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
الأدوية
- Antibiotics to control infection
- Anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce inflammation and swelling; aspirin may be recommended for adults.
- ملحوظة: Aspirin is not recommended for children or teens with a current or recent viral infection. This is because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Ask your doctor which other medicines are safe for your child.
- Other treatments specific to the diagnosis
رعاية داعمة
Hot, moist compresses on the lymph nodes can help relieve pain.
جراحة
Surgery may be necessary to drain pockets of pus if they occur.
الوقاية
To help reduce your chances of getting chronic lymphadenitis, take the following steps:
- Seek prompt treatment of bacterial and viral infections. Contact your doctor at the first signs of infection.
- Take steps to prevent getting an infection:
- Practice good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands regularly.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Eat a healthful diet that is low in saturated fat and rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.