Lymph nodes are quite accurate "sensors" that react sharply to the fact that a virus or infection has appeared in the body. In the near future, they can provoke a disease. The parents themselves call this ailment "glands". Inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child, their swelling indicates that there is a violation in their health. Parents should immediately think about this and make every effort to eliminate them.
Lymphadenopathy is an inflammation of the lymph nodes in medical practice. If 1 group of lymph nodes is affected, then it can be localized, if more than 2, not adjacent to each other, then it is called generalized.
There are about 500 lymph nodes on the child's body, the purpose of which is to "separate" bacteria and other disease-causing forms. Thus, the lymph nodes protect the body from all kinds of bacteria and infections. Lymph nodes are located either in groups or one at a time in places strategically for the body. They can be divided into: cervical, axillary, inguinal, which can even be felt. Other lymph nodes and their groups cannot be felt in any way because they are located much deeper. If the lymph nodes are in a normal state, then their size does not exceed the size of a small pea. They move easily, are very mobile and painless. If they are enlarged and painful, then this indicates various diseases, ranging from common colds, and ending with rare ones, which include leukemia.
ICD-10 code
R59 Enlarged lymph nodes
I88 Nonspecific lymphadenitis
L04 Acute lymphadenitis
Causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child
A child's illness is a very unpleasant situation for parents. It is not dangerous when a child develops chickenpox or a common cold, which does not threaten him with any threat, and quite another, other diseases that, if there is no proper attention from the parents, can cause negative consequences for a fragile child's body. The causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child can be completely different.
The last dangerous diseases include just inflammation of the lymph nodes. All this is caused by some kind of infection that negatively affects the body. The lymph nodes are just the protective barrier of the whole organism. More precisely, lymphadenitis is not just an independent disease, it only serves as a signal that there is another more dangerous disease in the human body. So, for example, inflamed cervical lymph nodes in children indicate that the child has sore throat or laryngitis. Pig may also be the reason.
The enlargement of the lymph nodes occurs in this way. The moment bacteria enter the lymph nodes through the lymphatic channels, the latter, having received information carried by immune cells, begin to produce cells that will have to fight the infection. Therefore, at the time of fighting the infection, the size of the lymph nodes increases.
In especially difficult cases, the lymph nodes are not able to cope with the load that is assigned to him. Because of this, severe inflammation occurs. It can even lead to a purulent process. Lymph nodes can not only enlarge, but even the skin itself becomes red and more swollen.
The inflammation itself can be either a secondary disease or a primary one. In this case, the infection penetrates directly into the lymph nodes, while it somehow bypasses the internal organs. This most often happens if the integrity of the skin is violated. These include all kinds of scratches and other wounds. Quite often, the lymph nodes become inflamed as a result of cat scratches.
Symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child
As a rule, in such situations, the disease begins, first of all, with a pronounced general dejected state of the body. In the area of damaged lymph nodes, inflammation appears. The child may immediately develop a high body temperature. Moreover, he may even begin to show signs of intoxication. Parents should seek medical attention as soon as possible. At the same time, no independent actions are encouraged in this case, on the contrary, they can cause one continuous harm. The first and then the last thing parents can do is give a fever-lowering drug before the ambulance arrives. And then only if the body temperature exceeds 39 degrees.
When the lymph node becomes inflamed, it becomes many times larger, so it is easy and simple to identify it at the very first examination of the patient. A pronounced sign can also be considered the presence of pain at the moment when the inflamed nodes are palpated. The skin over the node reddens or becomes hyperemic, there is a strong swelling of the tissues. This indicates an acute inflammatory process. At the same time, the temperature may rise even more, which, with a catarrhal form, does not rise to high numbers. This mainly occurs as a result of a purulent inflammatory process, which leads to a change in well-being not for the better. The general condition becomes weaker, lethargic. If the inflammation manifests itself in this form, then it is also characterized by a headache, malaise, which indicates that the body is present in the presence of intoxication.
With inflammation of the lymph nodes, the following symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child occur:
- The lymph nodes are enlarged and are very disturbing to the child;
- An unpleasant headache begins;
- Weakness appears and, as we said earlier, an increase in temperature;
- Later, the pain becomes more and more intense, reddening of the skin occurs at the site of the lymph node, which indicates suppuration of the nodes themselves;
- The general condition is getting worse and worse.
- The sad consequences include fever, chills and severe weakness in movement. This is the very same purulent lymphadenitis.
If, with an increase in one lymph node, soreness does not appear, an increase in temperature, which progresses the growth of the node, then these signs make it clear that this lymph node is working much very actively compared to others. Most often this happens against the background or after diseases that the child has already suffered. Over time, the lymph node becomes the same size.
It is worth noting that local treatment of lymphadenitis can only bring temporary relief. Only the fight against the main disease itself, which is the most important reason, as a result of which, in fact, the glands have enlarged, can have a positive effect.
The pathogens themselves scatter through the system of lymphatic and blood vessels throughout the body. Therefore, inflammatory processes can begin and give rise to development on the part of all kinds of organs and systems. If the purulent process does not stop developing, then the body temperature will rise significantly, up to the highest or hectic figures. Purulent lymphadenitis can be expressed in the form of a "falling finger", which is noticeable if, when pressed in the center of the inflamed lymph node, softening occurs. This indicates only purulent inflammation. If the inflammation is caused by bacteria of a certain rare nature, for example, in tuberculosis, then the abscess comes to the surface of the skin and a disease called "fistula" is obtained. The enlarged nodes open on their own, while liquid pus flows out, and the contents of the lymph node are the same in state as the caseous mass. To clarify why the lymph nodes are inflamed, a targeted biopsy is performed, after which the resulting material is transferred for histological and cytological analysis. This type of research makes it possible to remove the malignant nature of the disease.
Inflammation of the occipital lymph nodes in children
Any doctor, after he examined the child, can give an approximate diagnosis of the disease. For example, if inflammation of the occipital lymph nodes occurs in children, then we can assume the presence of such diseases:
They are considered the most common diseases that can lead to inflammation of the occipital lymph nodes in children. If the disease is extremely difficult, then inflammation of the occipital lymph nodes in children can be noticed, even without feeling. In this case, the child's face has an inflamed, puffy appearance.
As a rule, there is inflammation of 1 or several lymph nodes near the very focus of infection. The latter can get into the lymph node from a wound, boil, aching tooth, etc.
So, the occipital lymph nodes can also increase with infections located where the hair is located, and the preauricular lymph nodes grow due to infectious conjunctivitis and felinosis. To a greater extent, you can find enlarged cervical lymph nodes. It is usually attributed to upper respiratory tract infections. May appear as a result of dental and oral diseases, infectious monoculosis and other viral infections. Inguinal lymph nodes, for example, tend to get larger as a result of infections or injuries to the legs.
However, there is no need to diagnose your child yourself. For this, a medical examination is certainly needed, which will put everything in its place. An experienced specialist will determine whether an increase in lymph nodes can be considered local or is it widespread? Also, a specialist will assess their consistency, size and mobility, reveal whether or not there is pain on palpation, signs of inflammation of the surrounding tissues, areas of damaged skin and other all kinds of foci of infection.
Inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes in children
Experts show many reasons, as a result of which the cervical, including the occipital, and inguinal lymph nodes in children become enlarged or swollen:
- cat scratches. This is a fairly common cause among children who are in constant contact with cats. In the saliva of animals, there are many bacteria that easily penetrate the bloodstream if the child is bitten by an animal or he gets scratched. After 2-3 days, you can notice inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes in children. That is, his lymph node becomes inflamed;
- colds. In children, to whom the disease easily sticks, enlarged lymph nodes are very common. In most, the lymph nodes are inflamed in the child's neck;
- infectious diseases. In this case, the child has an enlarged lymph node, which is located near the main cause of the infection. If the lymph node on the child's neck is inflamed, then it may be a consequence of a disease of the respiratory system, throat, head. But if children have inflamed lymph nodes in the groin, then most often the reason for this is a disease of the genitourinary system. Inflamed lymph nodes behind the ears in children usually occur when the child experiences toothache or ear pain, as well as eye infections.
Inflammation of the intestinal lymph nodes in children
Inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes in children
As a rule, after the disease that caused the inflammation of the lymph nodes has been cured, the "glands" also return to their initial state. For example, inflamed, which means enlarged lymph nodes as a result of sore throat "swell" within a couple of days. If the disease has become the reason for the inflammation of the "glands", and it is difficult to cure it, the healing process slows down, then the lymph nodes become smaller and smaller, but much slower. Sometimes it happens that lymphadenopathy is very difficult to cure. She doesn't go away. In this case, surgical intervention is simply necessary to remove the lymph node.
What inflamed lymph nodes can mean:
- Lymph nodes in the cervical region are enlarged due to a bacterial or viral infection in the nasopharynx. Angina, scarlet fever, chronic tonsillitis - can also be the reason.
- Parotid lymph nodes may increase: the middle and outer ear may become inflamed, head lice and furunculosis may appear.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the chin area. In this case, the lower lip can be inflamed, disease of the front teeth, stomatitis.
- Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity. It can occur as a result of a viral or bacterial infection in the digestive system. Severe abdominal pain is the most dangerous and unpleasant symptom.
- Inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes in children can be caused by an infection of the lower extremities with the transition to the muscles, bones and skin of the child. It occurs in cases where the joints are inflamed, diaper dermatitis, furunculosis in the gluteal region, inflammation of the genitals are difficult.
Inflammation of the submandibular lymph nodes in children
Inflammation of the submandibular lymph nodes in children is a fairly common disease in childhood. Their submandibular lymph nodes are most susceptible to inflammation. This usually occurs due to persistent inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract. It is called "nonspecific lymphadenitis".
This lymphadenitis can be considered common to many diseases, which include ARVI, flu, or sore throat. Such diseases may not necessarily be acute in nature. If a child from an early age has not been treated for tonsillitis, then the lymph nodes are constantly enlarged and will not become smaller even after the issue of chronic tonsillitis is resolved.
At the beginning of their life, children do not have many infectious agents and the most popular form of their absorption is the oropharynx. Hence the whole "bouquet" of problems with enlarged lymph nodes. This is angina, tonsillitis and the subsequent removal of the tonsils. Submandibular lymphadenitis in a child can also be included in the immune complex of these entrance gates.
Inflammation of the submandibular lymph nodes in children is usually referred to as reactive lymphadenitis. One way or another, this disease is cured by the same solution to the problems with the disease that became its source.
It is not difficult to diagnose enlarged submandibular nodes of the immune system. To do this, it is only necessary to squeeze the fingers into a hand and press it into the submandibular region with leisurely soft movements. Examination is very necessary, because a good doctor can distinguish the presence of adhesion with the surrounding tissues of the lymph nodes, the consistency of the node. Quite often, lymphadenitis looks and can be felt as mobile nodes of moderate density.
An appointment with a dentist will make it possible to remove all inflammatory processes of the teeth and surrounding tissues. The rapid growth of teeth, irregular hand washing and microtrauma can be the reason for constant infection.
In this case, you should pay attention to the frequency of vaccinations. The child should be vaccinated according to the schedule. Otherwise, diseases such as diphtheria, whooping cough and scarlet fever will further add doubts about which source of enlarged nodes is considered effective and paramount. In this situation, an acute infection will manifest itself in the coming days, and then reception with an infectious disease specialist simply cannot be avoided.
If the lymph nodes are slightly enlarged, then this may be the result of the vaccinations delivered. It may not even have a connection with the vaccine itself, but with an activated and slightly weak immunity.
In order not to become the cause of inflammation of the submandibular lymphadenitis in children, do not delay the trip to the pediatrician. In any case, the child needs constant monitoring, and lymphadenitis is the main reason for the child to be examined by a doctor again.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpits in children
The largest group of lymph nodes is located in the armpit. These nodes are created to destroy infections and inflammations that enter the body. When a lymph node becomes inflamed in the armpit, this indicates that a disease occurs in one of the internal organs, located nearby, under the armpit.
The main symptoms that the lymph nodes have expanded in the armpit are: swelling, induration (lump), inflammation, swelling. Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpits in children is divided into 2 groups: a consequence of a cold or infection of the ENT organs. Therefore, if you find inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpit in a child, then this may indicate that he recently suffered an infectious disease or some kind of poisoning, food or chemical. It may also indicate that visual signs of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpits of a child indicate the development of a dangerous disease in the body, and in any case, the baby should be examined by a pediatrician before treating him with folk remedies at home.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpits in children can occur due to various diseases and skin wounds in the arms and shoulders. The most common cause of this can be the so-called "cat scratch disease". In medicine, this is called "benign lymphoreticulosis". The disease proceeds in this way: after the cat has scratched the child, inflammation of the lymph node that is located at a close distance to the scratch occurs, which serves as an open gate for all kinds of infections. If the child is scratched by a cat, then the wound should be immediately lubricated with brilliant green or iodine and for some time, carefully observe the condition of the child. In certain cases, toxoplasmosis can also walk along with inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpits in children.
Diagnosis of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child
To establish the cause of inflammation of the lymph nodes, a professional medical diagnosis of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child is required. At the moment when the desired infections are identified, it is necessary to fight them in such a way that the treatment of lymphadenopathy takes place in parallel. In this case, parents should not forget that before the first meeting with a doctor and taking a blood test, the lymph nodes are in no case allowed to warm up. Therefore, the diagnosis of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child is very important.
The task of the doctor, after he has found enlarged lymph nodes in the child, is to carefully conduct a physical examination. It may include a full examination of the tonsils for inflammation. Also, the doctor is obliged to detect wounds and cuts in the skin or scratches of animals, rat or tick bites, if such are present on the child's body. If the cause of the inflammation of the "glands" is not identified within a week, the doctor must invite a chest X-ray and blood tests. In addition, the doctor may take a piece of tissue from the lymph node for examination. In this case, a special needle is inserted into the lymph node through which its contents are sucked off. This procedure, with the help of modern technologies, is painless and does not last too long: it is performed in a doctor's office with the help of local anesthesia. If there are specialists who suspect cancer, then they usually prescribe special studies of the entire lymphatic system.
After the disease, which caused the inflammation of the lymph nodes, has been cured, the "glands" become in size as before, reaching their normal state.
Treatment of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child should not be treated on their own. This is especially true of folk remedies. If parents find inflammation, then you should immediately contact an ambulance. A high temperature may be a signal for this. In order to successfully eliminate inflammation in the lymph nodes, it is important to make an accurate and correct diagnosis and only then begin treatment of the detected disease, which was caused by inflammation of the lymph nodes. Sometimes, in order to establish an accurate diagnosis, it takes a long time, and a couple of ultrasound examinations, which include inflamed lymph nodes or other internal organs of the child.
First you need to understand: what causes the lymph nodes to become inflamed. For this, again, a doctor's consultation is necessary, who would carefully and with all care and concern examined the child, and only after that he would prescribe all kinds of tests and a chest x-ray. Remember that it is impossible to warm up the "glands" in every possible way before coming to the doctor. If you do not see this, then it can cause suppuration or infection. In some cases, a thorough laboratory examination is very important. To do this, the doctor, with the help of a special needle, takes a part of the diseased lymph node tissue and then transfers it for examination. This procedure is quick and easy. The pain is not audible because the local anesthetic is applied. And only after all the tests, the doctor can safely prescribe the treatment of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the child. But in any case, it should be carefully planned, weighed and considered.
Prevention of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child
Undoubtedly, prevention of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child is indispensable. If you notice that your child has swollen lymph nodes, treatment should be started at the same time, without delay. And only after that, under the strict supervision of a doctor, you can begin treatment.
Often, parents begin to warm up the inflamed lymph nodes in different ways. It is simply forbidden to do this, so as not to lead to the fact that the child may develop severe suppuration and even infection. Warming up should be done only if your doctor has given his permission for this, and then only on the territory of a medical institution.
If your baby has enlarged and swollen lymph nodes, then the treatment should be directed not at the lymph node itself, but at the main disease. Alas, in some cases the doctor is not able to establish a diagnosis only due to some complaints from the parents and the child himself. And the analyzes obtained do not give a clear vision of the further treatment of the child. In this case, the doctor may recommend an ultrasound examination of the affected lymph node, as well as internal organs. These include the spleen, liver, abdominal lymph nodes. If even after this the picture is not clear, a specialist in this area prescribes an X-ray examination, which shows whether the baby has a secret course of tuberculosis infection or not.
If the doctor is inclined that the child may have CMV, herpes, or toxoplasmosis pathogens in the child's blood, he may prescribe a laboratory serological blood test. If it clarifies the situation of inflammation of the lymph node, then the only solution from this difficult situation may be a puncture and its implementation, as well as a subsequent biopsy of the lymph node.
One way or another, parents should sound the alarm if they suddenly notice inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child, and not let it go. But you cannot panic and be frightened either. Typically, the cause of inflammation is simple, straightforward, and easy to treat. Not often, but still it happens that you cannot do without medical help, but this happens rarely. In any case, parents cannot quickly assess the condition of the child and the cause of the disease. It is best to entrust the child's health to a good, highly qualified doctor who will make an accurate diagnosis and establish the correct treatment.
Forecast of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child
Complications of lymphadenitis are considered the most unfavorable prognosis of inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child. These include inflammatory complications that are associated with the addition of bacterial flora or exacerbation of a chronic infection in the blood. Clinically, the development of an abscess or phlegmon makes itself felt about this. Severe manifestations can be observed with general intoxication or sepsis. A purulent process in the area of the lymph nodes requires urgent surgical intervention, which consists in opening the abscess and draining it. Antibiotic therapy in this case should serve as an indispensable component of therapeutic measures. If inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child is not properly treated, then this can contribute to the breakthrough of purulent contents into the underlying tissues, that is, adenophlegmon develops. The child's condition usually worsens in this case due to the intoxication syndrome. It is possible to stop the development of serious complications with inflammation of the lymph nodes in a child only by observing a set of preventive measures. An adequate course of therapy should be carried out for any of the diseases that can lead to lymphadenitis. It is important not to allow the child to become infected with various abrasions or superficial wounds of the skin.
], ,Lymph nodes are found in almost every organ of a person. Lymph nodes superficially(submandibular, axillary, cervical, occipital and others) are available to our inspection and palpation. The enlargement of such lymph nodes in children is easily detected even without the help of a doctor. Parents are usually worried about them. “Doctor, here he has some kind of dense lump (options: a little thing, a ball, a knot). Isn't that scary? "
However, besides this there are groups of lymph nodes, located deep in the body cavities(for example, in the roots of the lungs, along the intestines, in the liver, in the pelvis). Information about them can be obtained only with a special examination (ultrasound, etc.) if necessary. Of course, the interpretation of the data obtained in this case goes far beyond the limits of parental competence.
There are not so many typical places where mothers feel the notorious "bumps". Most often it is the head and neck., which in a healthy child are literally dotted with multiple groups of lymph nodes - submandibular, cervical, occipital, parotid. Much less often axillary lymph nodes increase, even less often - inguinal. Finding a large lymph node elsewhere than the locations described is a very unexpected find.
Since any doctor is well aware of how and where the lymph nodes should be located, in some cases it is immediately clear that the mother found something other than the lymph node. It can be an inflamed axillary sweat gland, a small cyst of the neck, and even an ordinary furuncle. In a word, not every lump felt by parents is a lymph node.
So what are lymph nodes?
Lymph nodes are the most important part of the immune system, and above all the anti-infectious defense of the body. Lymph nodes are a kind of body filters in which various toxins and other hazardous substances are deposited. They are scattered throughout the body, next to large blood vessels and major organs. In children, lymph nodes are round and oval in shape, in a normal state their diameter does not exceed 5-10 mm. In children under 3 years of age, a slight increase is considered the norm, because at this age, babies pull everything they see into their mouths.
Without a cause, lymph nodes do not enlarge, remaining unchanged throughout life. All lymph flowing through the lymphatic vessels passes through biological filters. Here she is cleansed of harmful toxins and various infectious agents. Acting as a collector, the lymph nodes constantly collect all the dangerous substances that enter the body. For the time being, this well-oiled system protects a person, but sooner or later the mechanism fails. The lymph nodes increase, and this serves as a signal for the development of a particular pathology in the child's body. But what - the pediatrician and immunologist will help you figure it out.
Causes of swollen lymph nodes
The lymphatic system of the child's body reacts sharply to all changes, but there are not so many reasons for inflammation. The causative agent of such a process in a child usually becomes infection and pathogenic microorganisms. In rare cases, inflammation is caused by malignant neoplasms. Both with cancerous tumors and with infection, the lymph nodes in the child act as a filter, they prevent infected and cancer-affected cells from spreading throughout the body. During radiation and tumor surgery, cancer cells are removed along with the affected lymph nodes. Thus, the risk of recurrence and re-formation of the tumor is reduced. In the lymph nodes, cancer cells remain, which, after treatment, begin to attack the body again.
As for pathogenic microorganisms, they enter the bloodstream, spread throughout the body and are retained primarily in the so-called filters, so inflammation begins with them.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes with different localization can cause a bacterial or viral infection and the following diseases:
- angina;
- scarlet fever;
- tonsillitis;
- otitis;
- bronchitis;
- stomatitis;
- pediculosis;
- periostitis;
- mesentery.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in children can be specific and non-specific. The first is caused by dangerous microorganisms:
- tubercle bacillus;
- syphilis;
- HIV infection.
A non-specific type of inflammation in a child is caused by:
- staphylococci;
- protea;
- streptococci;
- Escherichia coli.
Most often, the lymph nodes in a child increase due to the inflammatory process with colds and viruses. It is important that the child's condition is monitored by a specialist. Any deviations must be taken into account immediately.
The main symptom of inflammation of the lymph nodes is their visible enlargement, the rest of the signs depend on the cause and pathogen. The localization of inflammation depends on the location of the organs affected by the infection. With colds, swelling is observed in the cervical lymph nodes. With rubella or toxoplasmosis in a child, the occipital lymph nodes enlarge.
Infectious diseases, in addition to enlarged lymph nodes, cause a number of general symptoms: the body temperature rises and there are signs of general intoxication. In this case, you can safely suspect the presence of an infection in the body.
In addition to an increase, no changes in the structure of the lymph nodes are usually observed. They remain soft to the touch, there is no pain when touched.
These are examples of acute infections, when in the lymph nodes closest to the focus of inflammation, the number of immunocompetent cells increases sharply, blocking the further spread of the infection. It is not surprising that these unique "posts" of anti-infectious protection are getting larger - they must stop and destroy viruses and bacteria that are dangerous to the child. Lymphatic tissue increases with infectious and inflammatory processes of a protracted nature (frequent acute respiratory infections, chronic tonsillitis, adenoiditis, tubinfection, recurrent bronchitis). Germs can enter the lymphatic tissue as a result of common trauma: through infected wounds, cat scratches, abrasions, cuts, holes from earrings. Unfortunately, in the end of such a struggle, the lymph nodes can fester, and then the child may need a surgeon to open the red, painful swollen focus of purulent lymphadenitis. But this happens very rarely.
The child has inflamed lymph nodes: to treat or not?
Normally, in healthy children, lymph nodes in the neck can be palpated. Such formations do not exceed 1 cm in size and always remain painless. It is worth worrying if the lymph nodes enlarge and become more than 1.5 cm in diameter. Residual lymphadenopathy deserves special attention. This phenomenon occurs after the child has had the flu, SARS or other infectious disease. Enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes in a child's neck may persist for up to a month after recovery. In this case, no special treatment is performed. If your child has had flu or other illness in the near future, do not worry. It is likely that the swollen lymph nodes in the neck were caused by a common infection of the mouth and nasopharynx. In this case, it is not necessary to treat the inflamed lymph nodes. Within 2-4 weeks after recovery, the formations on the neck will disappear by themselves without any additional therapy.
If a child has swollen lymph nodes of one or two groups, and at the same time their size is stable, no suspicious changes are found in the analyzes, and the general condition and development do not suffer, then the doctor is most often limited to dynamic observation.
But if there is a rapid progressive growth of one or more lymph nodes, or there is no effect from the treatment, or the enlargement of the lymph nodes has a rare localization (for example, the supraclavicular fossa), then both parents and the treating doctor should be wary. In such cases, an in-depth examination of the child is necessary.
There are situations in which you should not hesitate to visit a doctor. In what cases it is imperative to consult a specialist!
- The lymph nodes are constantly in an enlarged state (more than 1 month).
- Lymph nodes increase in several groups at once.
- The child's body temperature rises against the background of lymphadenopathy.
- The skin over the lesion is red, hot to the touch, and it is very painful to touch the node.
- The lymph nodes are fused together and with the surrounding tissues.
See your doctor if the swollen lymph nodes are accompanied by a deterioration in the general condition of the child. Of great importance is not only the size, but also the consistency of the altered lymph nodes. For inflammatory processes, the appearance of enlarged soft-elastic formations is characteristic. Dense lymph nodes in children occur with metastases of tumor cells. Cohesion with each other and with the surrounding tissues is characteristic of malignant tumors and tuberculosis.
And in conclusion - what should not be done, if the child has enlarged lymph nodes.
- Apply thermal procedures or any physiotherapy treatment (heat does not remove inflammation, but promotes the growth of bacteria);
- You can not smear the lymph nodes with alcohol-containing solutions;
- Endlessly feeling the child's problem area: there is little sense from this, but in combination with an alarming facial expression and questions like: "What if this?"
- Torment yourself with arguments about "sick lymph nodes" that were once found in relatives: the age-related characteristics of the immunity of babies seriously distinguish them from adults.
The diagnosis of diseases in pediatric practice is complicated by the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the child's body. In most cases, the clinical picture of local infections or other processes differs in generalization due to unformed immunity and limiting functions of the lymphatic system. Therefore, the onset of local inflammatory pathology is accompanied in a child by enlarged lymph nodes in many areas of the body. For the purpose of differential diagnosis and construction of an algorithm of actions, the assessment of lymph nodes in various pathologies is carried out.
The lymphatic system in children: localization, size, shape and function
The protective function of the body when interacting with infectious pathogens and other pathological processes is largely determined by the lymphatic system, which consists of vessels that collect blood ultrafiltrate (lymph) from various parts of the body.
Lymph travels through the channels and zones that determine the location of the lymph nodes. The latter consist of immunocompetent cells (lymphocytes and macrophages), which neutralize the antigens of bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoa. Normally, the number of nodes in an adult is about 600.
Lymph nodes in children begin to form at 4-5 months of intrauterine development. During the first year of a baby's life, lymphoid tissue is in a state of physiological hyperplasia (increased in size); it is loose, however, not functionally active enough. The formation of an adequate immune function occurs at the age of 7-8 years. Before this period, due to the failure of the structures to localize the process, children are prone to generalization of moderate infections.
An effective immune function is provided by the grouping and localization of nodes in the internal cavities and on the body. Depending on where the lymph nodes are located, the following groups are distinguished:
- Superficial - structures that are palpable during clinical examination. This group includes the lymph nodes of the head and neck, axillary, elbow, inguinal and popliteal. The outflow of lymph from the head, neck organs (oral cavity, larynx, pharynx, trachea) is provided by the submandibular, chin, occipital and supraclavicular lymph nodes.
- Deep (visceral) lymph nodes in children located in the chest and abdominal cavity provide lymphatic drainage of internal organs. This group includes a set of intrathoracic lymph nodes (bronchopulmonary, tracheobronchial, bifurcation) and mesenteric (mesenteric) structures.
An increase in the size of the axillary structures accompanies the pathology of the chest wall, upper limb or breast. Inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes indicates diseases of the lower limb, genitals and pelvic organs.
Important! In a healthy child under 3 years of age, only the submandibular, axillary and inguinal nodes are palpable
Causes of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in childhood
The pathophysiological mechanism of enlarged lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) is determined by etiology. When a pathological process occurs, the size of organs increases due to the accumulation of metastatic cells (with malignant tumors) or with a viral, bacterial or fungal infection.
Five main causes of enlarged lymph nodes in a child:
- The immune response to the penetration of infectious pathogens (for example, virus damage after a tick bite).
- The spread of inflammatory cells (lymphocytes, neutrophils, macrophages) to the tissue of the node during purulent or allergic processes.
- Infiltration with neoplastic cells that move through the lymphatic or blood vessels (metastases).
- Localized neoplastic proliferation of lymphocytes and macrophages in the lymph nodes (leukemia, lymphoma).
- Infiltration of the structure by macrophages in diseases of accumulation (hereditary pathologies with deficiencies of cleaving enzymes), hemochromatosis, Gierke's disease.
Physiological reactive process with lymphadenitis (inflammation of lymphoid tissue) develops due to the spread of inflammatory mediators from distant sites. In this case, an increase in the number of lymphocytes and macrophages causes an increase in the size of the node.
The clinical picture of lymphadenopathy and lymphadenitis in children
The appearance of characteristic symptoms is associated with stretching of the node capsule, irritation of sensitive pain receptors and the spread of inflammatory mediators.
The most common concomitant signs of inflamed lymph nodes in a child:
- Fatigue, decreased appetite, weakness and fatigue, which occurs due to intoxication syndrome.
- Pain in the area of the affected structure. The release of biologically active substances (bradykinin, histamine) into the blood, as well as irritation of the receptors when the capsule is stretched, causes painful sensations.
- Those groups of nodes that are normally inaccessible to palpation are probed. They become dense, painful, inactive, welded to the tissues.
- Swelling, redness and local increase in skin temperature over the inflamed lymph nodes.
- Significantly enlarged lymph nodes in a child cause compression of nearby structures. For example, when mediastinal nodes are affected, coughing, shortness of breath occur, and an increase in mesenteric lymph nodes can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and constipation.
- Affected lymph nodes with chickenpox in children are accompanied by a generalized polymorphic rash with severe itching.
- High temperature (more than 38˚С), which accompanies most infectious diseases. In addition, in children of the younger age group (up to 3 years old) - this symptom can be caused by various reasons due to insufficient barrier function of the node and generalization of all inflammatory processes.
Important! If a child has enlarged lymph nodes without any other signs against the background of complete health, there is a risk of a sluggish pathological process.
Diseases in children, occurring with enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes
Functional immaturity of barrier mechanisms, contact with animals and being in a children's team contribute to the development of pathologies in which the elements of the lymphatic system become inflamed.
Why does the child have enlarged lymph nodes:
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Disease |
Characteristic signs |
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Virus-associated pathology (herpes type 1, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus infection) |
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Bacterial infection (streptococci, staphylococci) |
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Atypical mycobacterial infection |
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Cat scratch disease (caused by a bacterium of the genus Bartonella) |
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Malignant neoplasms (lymphogranulomatosis and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma) |
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Tuberculosis |
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Important! A variant of the physiological reaction is the involvement of lymph nodes in the process of teething with a massive release of inflammatory mediators into the blood
Algorithm of actions for enlarged lymph nodes
The appearance of the first general symptoms of malaise or high fever, which is accompanied by a visible proliferation of lymphoid tissue, requires immediate medical attention. The absence of a pronounced clinical picture also requires early diagnosis in order to prevent complications.
Depending on the existing symptoms and anamnesis, it is recommended to consult specialists who determine what to do if the child has lymphadenitis:
- Pediatrician dealing with acute respiratory infections, as well as lymphadenitis associated with teething.
- Otorhinolaryngologist (ENT doctor).
- Children's infectious disease specialist.
- Phthisiatrician (deals with the treatment of tuberculosis).
- Oncologist or hematologist.
- Surgeon.
Most often, determining the cause of enlarged lymph nodes in a child requires instrumental and laboratory confirmation. For the purpose of differential diagnosis and verification, the following studies are used:
- Ultrasound of the affected node is a safe method that shows the uniformity, density and size of superficial and deep formations.
- Chest x-ray - in the presence of cough, shortness of breath. The method allows you to determine the size of nodes in the mediastinum, as well as the presence of calcifications - a characteristic sign of pulmonary tuberculosis.
- Computed tomography (CT) is an X-ray method for visualizing the affected structures and the relation to the above or below organs.
- A general blood test is a mandatory study, which determines the severity of the inflammatory process (it shows whether the level of leukocytes is growing or not).
- Laboratory tests (enzyme immunoassay, polymerase chain reaction), which confirm the presence of an infectious agent in the body.
The most informative way to verify changes in lymphoid tissue is biopsy (a surgical method of taking a piece of tissue for examination under a microscope).
Methods for the treatment of inflamed lymphoid tissue in children
The basic principles for inflammation or enlargement of the lymph nodes depend on the primary pathology. In pediatric practice, conservative and surgical methods of treatment are used.
How to treat lymph nodes with medication:
- Antiviral drugs - in case of herpesvirus or adenovirus infection.
- Antibacterial agents - are selected depending on the antibiogram (a study that shows which antibiotic the pathogen is sensitive to).
- Antihistamines - in case of severe edema, signs of allergies.
- Antipyretic - used as symptomatic therapy in addition to the main treatment.
- Chemotherapeutic agents are prescribed for tuberculosis and oncological processes, according to protocol schemes.
Important! Prescription of drugs is carried out by the attending physician, taking into account concomitant diseases, age, weight and course of the disease in each child individually
Surgical intervention is used for severe purulent processes, malignant neoplasms and involves external drainage or complete removal of the affected organ.
Pediatricians strongly discourage the use of traditional medicine if the child has an inflamed lymph node. Warming up, using compresses or self-administration of chemotherapeutic agents contribute to the progression of the disease and the development of complications.
Enlarged lymph nodes on the neck in children are rare. Therefore, having found a small seal in their baby, many parents begin to panic. Doctors assure that this is not worth doing. The most correct solution in this situation is contact a specialist .
First you need to visit a pediatrician, take a blood and urine test.
According to its results, the patient can be referred to an immunologist and hematologist. We will talk about how to get rid of lymphadenitis in today's article.
A few words about cervical lymphadenitis
If the lymph node is enlarged on only one side, you should not panic. Most likely, the reason is trivial: the immune system reacted to pathogenic trace elements in the body. In this case, the child may not have other symptoms at all.
Inflammation on both sides- serious cause for concern... The reasons can be in mononucleosis, tuberculosis, syphilis, oncology.
Causes of inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes
The disease can be of two types:
- Specific ... Lymph node infection or severe furunculosis has occurred.
- Nonspecific ... The lymph nodes react to viruses that have entered the body. In this case, the child will experience serious ailments (flu, tonsillitis, laryngitis, tuberculosis, etc.).
In addition, the following reasons lead to inflammation of the lymph nodes:
- oncology;
- malfunctions of the immune system;
- severe cases of allergies;
- bartonella. This infection is "carried" into the blood of a child by cats and dogs;
- teething;
- response to vaccination.
Lymphadenitis can occur in both infants and older children.
Symptoms
How can lymphadenitis be recognized at the initial stage? The symptoms are as follows:
- enlargement of lymph nodes on one or two sides;
- pain on palpation(does not always arise);
- the lymph node becomes thickened, "rolls" under the skin;
- its consistency changes;
- the skin around the lymph node becomes red, swollen;
- the child's condition worsens, in some cases, fever is observed.
If a child has at least a few of the above symptoms, see a doctor. In most cases, a specialist diagnoses a baby with a cold or a viral disease, but there are situations when an increase in lymph nodes indicates serious blood diseases.
Correct treatment
Before starting treatment, you need to find out what caused the inflammation of the lymph nodes:
- Bacterial infection ... In this case, antibiotics are needed. Among the modern, effective drugs are: "Flemoxin", "Bitsillin", " Amoxicillin», « Azithromycin», « Suprax". Antibiotic is applied 3-5 days... In this case, drugs are prescribed that restore the intestinal microflora (live bacteria). Antibiotics eliminate the main cause of the disease, the lymph nodes return to normal on their own.
- Viral infection ... It can be flu, herpes, viral sore throat, and more. In this case, antiviral drugs will come to the rescue. They have a wide spectrum of action: they not only fight the virus, but also make the immune system work more actively. Among the funds are: " Viferon», « Aflubin», « Anaferon". In addition, you can add homeopathic remedies that are made on a herbal, natural basis. These include “ Echinacea tincture», « Immunal". You need to take these drugs for at least a month. It is better to undergo treatment in several courses.
- Antipyretic drugs ... With an increase in lymph nodes, children often have an increase in body temperature. Fever often begins, indicators border on the mark 39-40 degrees... In these cases, " Paracetamol», « Ibuprofen". In severe cases, when the temperature does not go astray, you can use candles " Analdim". They are used 1 or 2 times a day.
- If the cause of the enlargement of the lymph nodes is fungal infections , you need to take drugs like " Fluconazole», « Nystatin". In addition, it is important to restore the intestinal flora (take bifidobacteria, natural yoghurts, kefir).
- Remove puffiness the drug will help " Dimexide". It must be diluted with water and applied to the lymph node, leave on 15-20 minutes... There shouldn't be any unpleasant sensations.
It is important! If a child is diagnosed with autoimmune ailments, then a specialist should deal with their treatment. Treatment in this case is prescribed on an individual basis.
Tinctures and ointments
In addition to these funds, tinctures and ointments can be used externally. Most Popular:
Ointments and gels are used exclusively externally. They can only be used after consulting a doctor.
We use traditional medicine
Celandine compress. The leaves of a fresh plant are poured over with boiling water, they are allowed to cool completely. Then it is applied to the affected area of the neck and left for 20 minutes. A similar procedure can be carried out 2 times a day.
Alternative methods will help relieve swelling and remove painful sensations from the lymph nodes:
- Baked onion chop finely, you can beat with a blender. The resulting mixture is applied to the lymph node, covered with a cloth, and left for an hour.
- Herbal compress (chamomile, calendula, dandelion).
It is important! Traditional medicine is only good when used in parallel with traditional treatments.
What not to do!
What parents should not do:
- Warm up the lymph node on your own ... This can lead to suppurative inflammation. The consequences can be the most dire.
- Trying to open the lymph node ... You will not only fail to bring relief to the child, but also worsen his condition.
- Take antibiotics ... After using them, the lymph node can recover, but the exact reason for its enlargement will not be known, the disease will turn into a chronic form.
Lymphadenitis in children should be treated by a doctor. It will not be possible to cope with the problem on your own.
Prevention measures
But also do not forget about the basic preventive measures. They are mainly aimed at strengthening the child's immunity.
- The baby needs to be protected from hypothermia.
- Monitor proper nutrition. The menu must include meat, fish, fruits, berries, vegetables.
- Any disease of a bacterial or viral nature should proceed under the supervision of a physician.
- The child routinely has to take a general blood test every six months.
conclusions
In most cases, enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck does not entail any serious ailments. But still, to establish an accurate diagnosis you need to see a doctor, pass the necessary tests.
My child is 11 years old. From the age of 9, he began to often get sick with acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections, constant anemia, but at an early stage. There have never been any special health problems. During the illness, the lymph nodes in the neck become very inflamed and the recovery is delayed. Why is the lymph node in the child's neck inflamed and how to deal with it as soon as possible? Snezhana, 32 years old, Abakan
Unfortunately, in this issue, one can only be guided by general concepts of the causes of the occurrence, since the general somatic status of the child is not entirely clear. Is it possible to think that before the age of 9 you were not ill at all, that your child does not have any chronic diseases or underwent surgeries? Chronic anemic syndrome is a direct signal to a violation of the full blood supply to organs and tissues. In children, despite the latent course in the early stages, iron deficiency anemia has a serious effect on internal processes in the body.
Inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes is a reaction to chronic infectious diseases. Here we can assume a decrease in the immune status caused by internal failures. Slightly swollen lymph nodes do not always indicate inflammation, on the contrary, such reactions are evidence of the body's struggle with pathogenic microflora.
Lymph nodes are presented as a kind of barrier to the penetration of infectious agents into the human body. Inflammation of the lymph nodes is called lymphadenopathy. When only one group of lymph nodes is affected, the inflammation is local in nature. When two or more groups are affected, lymphadenitis is referred to as a generalized form. Not in every organism, lymph nodes perform a full-fledged protective function. The inflammatory process of the lymph nodes is a signal for the onset of pathological processes in the body of various origins. The inflammation can be chronic or acute. In your case, there is probably a chronic form of pathology. According to the type of course, two main types of the disease are distinguished:
serous.
Serous type of inflammation is more common. Purulent is caused by pyogenic bacteria of the group of staphylococci, streptococci. In this case, treatment should be prompt, as the inflammation progresses rapidly, leading to extensive sepsis.
Causes
There are many reasons for inflammation of the lymph nodes, but there are a number of provoking factors that significantly affect the state of the lymphatic system in the child's body:
infectious diseases (ARVI, ARI, tonsillitis, influenza, focal pneumonia);
respiratory and hearing diseases;
allergic reactions of any genesis;
carious damage to the teeth;
tubercle bacillus;
adverse reaction to the vaccine, drug therapy;
scratches or pet bites.
Malignant tumors, pathologically reduced immunity - all this can affect the inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes. In childhood, such conditions are rare. In your case, it is important to conduct a full-fledged examination, since a sharp decrease in immunity, persistent illness, inflammation of the nodes is already dangerous, provided that there were no serious episodes of disease before.
The following disorders and diseases are considered the causes of generalized forms of lymphadenitis:
Infectious mononucleosis;
hepatitis of various groups;
toxoplasmosis tuberculosis (for tuberculosis, inflammation of the lymph nodes is a characteristic feature);
autoimmune and systemic diseases;
oncological education.
Serious pathologies in childhood, especially against the background of absolute health, are very rare. Unfortunately, the lack of complete information about your child does not make it possible to exclude the presence of serious diseases of organs and systems. Inflammation can be caused by hormonal disorders that are inherent in early puberty. The gender of the child is also unclear from your complaints. Often it is girls who begin to change intensively by the age of 11-12.
Against the background of intense hormonal release, persistent endocrine disorders can form. In case of disturbing symptoms, you should visit an endocrinologist.
Soreness in the lymph nodes is of a pulsating nature, does not subside during sleep. With frequent infectious diseases, there may be a chronization of the pathological process, which is expressed in the formation of chronic laryngitis, pharyngitis, rhinitis. The disease can be promoted by a neglected state of the oral cavity. Carious cavities, diseases of the pharyngeal mucosa - all this negatively affects the state of health in general.
The main sign of inflammation of the lymph node is an increase in its size. Sometimes the size of the seal reaches 5 cm... Inflammation is noted on palpation of the cervical region. The skin in the area of inflammation turns red, swelling appears. Other symptoms include the following manifestations:
headache;
insomnia;
severe pain in the affected area;
weakness:
an increase in temperature (with a purulent form);
an increase in internal intoxication.
Every day the child experiences a deterioration. Under the condition of the defeat of coccal groups by pyogenic bacteria, a high temperature rises, the spread of bacteria begins through the lymph flow, blood flow. If there is no soreness against the background of an increase in the lymph node, then this may indicate its excessive activity. As the lymph nodes recover, they return to their previous size without much treatment.
It is not necessary to talk about the development of serious pathologies right away, as long as there are no test data. Differential diagnosis makes it possible to clarify the root cause of the inflammatory process, to find out the pathogenesis, nature of the disease and the form of the inflammatory focus. The main diagnostic methods are as follows:
examination of complaints;
collection of clinical history;
physical examination and palpation of the area of inflammation of the nodes;
puncture of the lymph node to study the nature of purulent exudate;
examination of lymph node tissues (in chronic form).
Instrumental methods for diagnosing lymphadenitis are not used, usually laboratory data are sufficient. Without fail, children pass general urine tests (for sterility, daily as needed), general blood tests and detailed biochemical tests. With a burdened clinical history, consultation of the attending physicians is required on the profile of concomitant diseases.
What to do
Treatment of lymphadenitis begins with determining the true cause of the disease. Treatment is symptomatic. So, if the cause of the disease is infectious lesions of the respiratory system, then antibacterial and symptomatic therapy is prescribed.
Treatment of an inflammatory focus is carried out in the following ways:
the use of local remedies (compresses, treatment);
puncture and installation of drainage to drain exudate.
With a purulent form of the disease, a course of antibiotic therapy is prescribed, immunomodulators to increase the body's immune defense. There are other rules for the treatment of children with lymphadenitis:
providing bed rest;
plentiful warm drinks (fruit drinks, compotes, boiled water, green tea);
fresh juices, salads from fresh vegetables and fruits;
the appointment of absorbents or preparations for the normalization of microflora;
physiotherapy (electrophoresis, heating, phonophoresis).
Physiotherapy is prescribed only if there is no inflammation or temperature. In the treatment of lymphadenitis, it is important to prescribe adequate therapy for contributing diseases to exclude serious complications and chronicity of pathological processes.
It is important for parents to know about the ineffectiveness, and sometimes the danger, of various folk recipes. You should not experiment with the health of children, since it is impossible to determine the nature of the disease at home. Under no circumstances should you take the following steps:
prescribe any drug therapy on your own (even in the chronic course of the pathology);
apply an iodine mesh to the affected area;
warm up the neck and throat with hot compresses;
rub with alcohol and other local irritants;
drink hot drinks.
With another increase in the lymph node in the neck against the background of an infectious disease, you should consult a pediatrician. Timely treatment will save you from serious consequences. Adequate therapy of the underlying disease can completely relieve the lymphatic system from overstrain and pathologies.
The prognosis for lymphadenitis in childhood is mostly favorable. In case of a timely reaction of the parents, the disease can be completely eliminated. Otherwise, there is the development of phlegmon, the addition of a pyogenic bacterial environment, severe intoxication, exacerbation of chronic diseases. Complicated lymphadenitis always requires surgical correction. Be healthy!
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