lymphadenopathy
Meaning of lymphadenopathy: Lymphadenopathy is enlargement of one or more lymph nodes, a common finding that can reflect infection, inflammation, or, less often, malignancy.
Definition of lymphadenopathy
Lymphadenopathy refers to lymph nodes that are enlarged or abnormal in size, texture, or number. Lymph nodes are small structures throughout the body that filter lymph fluid and play a role in the immune response, and they commonly enlarge in reaction to nearby or systemic infection and inflammation.
Lymphadenopathy can be localized to one region, such as the neck or armpit, or generalized, involving multiple areas of the body at once. Localized lymphadenopathy often points to a nearby cause, such as a local infection, while generalized lymphadenopathy suggests a process affecting the body more broadly, such as certain viral infections or systemic conditions.
Although infection is a common cause, persistent, progressive, or widespread lymphadenopathy is also evaluated for other causes, including certain cancers, since the size, firmness, and pattern of the lymph nodes can help guide further testing.
Also known as
Used in a sentence
The physical examination revealed cervical lymphadenopathy in association with the recent upper respiratory infection.
Good to know
Lymph nodes that are tender, soft, and mobile are more often associated with infection, while nodes that are firm, fixed, and painless raise greater concern and typically prompt further evaluation.
Word origin
Where “lymphadenopathy” comes from
Formed from lymph-, from Latin lympha, meaning "water," and adeno-, from Greek aden, meaning "gland," with -pathy, meaning "disease."