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What Are Axillary Lymph Nodes and Why Do They Swell?
Lymph nodes are part of thelymphatic system.
The immune assault is characterized byinflammationduring which the lymph nodes can swell to as large as a grape.
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Depending on the cause, there may also be heat, tenderness, redness, and pain.
Axillary lymph nodes are those situated in the armpits.
Symptoms of Axillary Lymphadenopathy
Axillary lymphadenopathy can vary significantly based on the underlying cause.
Certain symptoms may provide clues, but additional testing may be needed to confirm the suspicions.
The cause of axillary lymphadenopathy can be broadly categorized as being infectious, non-infectious, and cancerous.
Respiratory Infections
Any severe respiratory infectionincludinginfluenza (flu),COVID-19.pneumonia, ortuberculosiscan cause axillary lymphadenopathy.
Mono commonly causes swollen lymph nodes both in the neck and armpits.
Skin infections acquired in the hospital, includingmethicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA), can sometimes occur after surgery.
Those involving the chest, shoulder, or arm can cause axillary lymphadenopathy.
During the early stage of infection where the virus is rapidly replicating, often-extreme generalized lymphadenopathy can develop.
Even so, the lymphadenopathy can persist for weeks and even months longer.
With CSD, the hand or arm is the most common site of exposure.
As the infection spreads, it can cause unilateral swelling of the axillary lymph nodes nearest the wound.
The infection is characterized by a bullseye-shaped rash at the site of the infection.
Lymphadenopathy commonly develops nearest the bite but can become generalized as the infection progresses.
In severe cases,facial palsyandmeningitiscan develop.
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseasesare those in which the immune system targets and attacks normal tissues with inflammation.
Leukemia starts in the bone marrow, causing the production of abnormal white blood cells called leukemic cells.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer and axillary lymph nodes are inextricably linked.
Other symptoms of breast cancer include:
How Is Axillary Lymphadenopathy Diagnosed?
Axillary lymphadenopathy can usually be identified with a physical exam.
Your healthcare provider may discover swollen lymph nodes during a routine checkup even if you have no symptoms.
What Size Lymph Node Is Concerning?
In adults, axillary lymph nodes are around 2 millimeters in diameter with a soft, oval shape.
Other signs include a firm texture and a round or irregular shape.
Summary
Axillary lymphadenopathy is the swelling of lymph nodes in the armpits.
It can occur for many reasons, including infections, vaccination, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Axillary lymphadenopathy is not a disease but a symptom of a disease.
The treatment is focused on resolving the underlying cause.
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