In secondary or metastatic lymph node cancer, cancer cells from a malignant tumor of a  distant organ travel to the lymph nodes via the lymphatic or blood vessels and lodge within the lymph nodes, where they continue to proliferate. These cells, when examined under a microscope, are seen to resemble the cancer cells of the organ from where they originated.

continue reading Secondary (Metastatic) Lymph Node Cancer

In primary lymph node cancer or lymphoma, the cells of the lymph nodes (lymphocytes) become cancerous resulting in abnormal and excessive proliferation or growth of the tissues and cells of the lymph nodes. This causes enlargement of lymph nodes in various parts of the body and these swollen lymph nodes are most often detected in the armpit, neck or groin as painless, hard swellings.

Lymphomas are usually restricted within the lymph nodes or other lymphatic tissue but may sometimes spread to other types of tissues in the body, where it is known as extranodal disease.

There are two types of lymphomas – Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The latter, non-Hodgkin lymphomas, includes all other lymphomas which are not Hodgkin’s lymphoma. These are further divided into five subtypes of Hodgkin’s lymphoma and about 30 subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma based upon their microscopic appearance, genetic arrangement or extent of the disease process.

continue reading Primary Lymph Node Cancer (Lymphoma)

There are two types of lymph node cancer – primary and secondary. When the cancer starts in a lymph node or spreads to it from adjacent lymph nodes it is known as primary lymph node cancer or a lymphoma. If the cancer originates in some other organ or tissue and then spreads to the lymph nodes it is known as secondary or metastatic lymph node cancer. Malignant lymph nodes may be felt as firm or hard, immobile (fixed) swollen lumps which are most often painless and may sometimes be matted together.

Primary lymph node cancer or lymphoma can be divided into two types – Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. These lymphomas may be further divided into various sub-types.

The importance of secondary lymph node involvement in various types of cancer lies in the fact that it indicates spread of cancer away from the primary site as well as helping to determine the prognosis of the disease, chances of recurrence and the treatment plan.

continue reading Lymph Node Cancer

The neck contains a large number of lymph nodes, known as the cervical lymph nodes and many are superficial and easily palpable (can be felt by touch). A swollen neck lymph node is not uncommon and frequently occurs in children, even when there is no disease or obvious cause present. With age, the incidence of enlarged neck lymph nodes declines except when it is due to some pathology.

The most common cause for swollen neck (cervical) lymph nodes is an infection. While most incidents of cervical lymph node enlargement is self-limiting and resolves quickly, some may persist for a longer time and may need more active management. Amongst this group, the supraclavicular lymph nodes are of special significance. Their enlargement may be an ominous sign since it is most often associated with malignancy and careful assessment and investigation is indicated.

continue reading Causes of Swollen Neck Lymph Nodes

The lymph nodes of the groin, or inguinal lymph nodes, are located in the crease between the leg and pelvis. There are two types of inguinal lymph nodes – superficial and deep. They often swell due to an infection or cancer in the areas from which they drain lymph (lymphatic fluid). For this reason, swelling of the groin lymph nodes is an important clinical indication of pathology within the lower abdominal wall, legs, groin, buttocks, anus, perineum and external genitalia.

continue reading Causes of Swollen Groin Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes of the armpit are known as the axillary lymph nodes. They are usually not palpable (felt by touch) but may sometimes become swollen, hard and/or painful. This can arise from a host of possible causes ranging from minor injuries to infections and even cancer. Apart from the armpit itself, disorders or diseases of surrounding organs may also cause axillary lymph node swelling.

continue reading Causes of Swollen Armpit Lymph Nodes

A swollen lymph node or gland is a term commonly used to describe lymphadenopathy, a condition associated with enlarged lymph nodes in a specific area of the body (localized) or throughout the entire body (generalized lymphadenopathy). Lymphadenopathy is an indicator of a disorder affecting a certain area of the body or a generalized condition throughout the body.

continue reading Swollen Lymph Nodes, Glands – Lymphedema, Lymphadenopathy