2.1.2 Cervical Lymphadenopathy Flashcards
What is a common cause for neck lumps? (kids and adults)
Lymphadenopathy
Is lymphadenopathy concerning?
Not a big issue as most caused by local infection that the lymph node drains
When are we more concerned about lymphadenopathy?
Risk of more concerning cause rises with increasing age
What do we do when we are presented with lymphadenopathy?
- Take a history, usually suggestive of cause
- Palpate
- Consider biopsy
What kind of findings would you have on palpation due to infection?
- Tender
- Mobile-does not feel stuck to tissues
- Recent rapid enlargement
What are the two main causes of lymphadenopathy?
Reactive- infective cause
Malignancy
What are the palpation finding for secondary malignancy in lymph nodes? (mets that have spread)
- Hard
- Tethered to surrounding tissues- immobile
- Painless to palpate
Head To Pit (as its spread from head to axilla)
What are palpation findings for a primary malignancy? (lymph cancer, e.g. lymphoma)
- Rubbery
- Painless to palpate
- Fast-growing
What are some red flags for lymphadenopathy?
- Persisting >6 weeks
- Fixed, hard and irregular
- Rapidly growing in size
What are some red flags of lymphadenopathy due to associated features?
Associated with:
* Generalised lymphadenopathy
* Systemic signs/symptoms- weight loss, night sweats
* Associated with a persistent change in voice/hoarseness or swallowing difficulty
Where else should we palpate if malignancy/ systemic disease is suspected?
Other lymph nodes and body systems
Check spleen
