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. Among 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. Anatomy of Neck Lymph Nodes Swollen lymph nodes of the neck may be localized, where only groups of lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged. In some cases, it may be generalized where lymph nodes in other parts of the body are also involved. There are mainly six different groups of lymph nodes situated in the neck and according to … Continue reading Causes of Swollen Neck Lymph Nodes