3- lymphadenopathy

Question 1

what does lymphadenopathy mean?

Answer 1

enlarged lymph nodes

Question 2

what are differentials for lymphadenopathy?

Answer 2

• lymphoma
• infection
• metastatic cancer (breast, ovarian etc)
• connective tissue disorders (SLE)
• glandular fever
• tuberculous lymphadenopathy (widespread enlarged lymph nodes)

Question 3

what are symptoms of lymphoma?

Answer 3

• general cancer e.g. night sweats, weight loss
• itch with no rash
• alcohol induced pain
• fatigue

Question 4

what are the 4 things to think about character of lymphadenopathy to help diagnosis?

Answer 4

1. generalised lymphadenopathy? just 1 enlarged?
2. painful?
3. smooth or irregular
4. mobile or stuck in position

Question 5

what are characteristics of
a) viral lymphadenopathy?
b) bacterial lymphadenopathy?
c) lymphoma
d) metastatic lymphadenopathy?

Answer 5

a) tender, hard, smooth
b) tender, hard, smooth, inflamed skin
c) non tender, rubbery/soft, smooth
d) non tender, hard, irregular, tethered (can’t move it)

Question 6

what is diagnostic test for lymphadenopathy?

Answer 6

lymph node biopsy = can be used to exclude cancers too

• then can do histology, immunophenotyping etc