In addition to blood circulation, our body has a second circulatory system called the lymphatic system. Lymph fluid, lymph vessels, and lymph nodes are part of this system. There are approximately 600 lymph nodes distributed in various parts of our body. Approximately 300 of them are in the neck area. Lymph nodes are also a part of our immune system.
WHY DO LYMPH NODES ENLARGE
The most common reason for the enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck is infections in the head and neck area. Enlargement of the glands in the neck usually occurs due to pharyngitis, tonsillitis and dental infections. In such a case, the gland is usually tender and painful to touch. More than one gland may grow and be several cm in size. Sometimes the infection involves the lymph node and a painful and feverish condition called lymphadenitis occurs. Even an abscess may develop in the lymph node.
In childhood, lymph nodes smaller than 1 cm are generally considered a normal finding. There is no need for research, but it should be kept under observation to make sure that it does not enlarge.
Some disorders in the scalp and facial skin may cause the lymph nodes in the neck to enlarge. In this case, the glands are usually around 1 cm, multiple and painless. They may disappear and reoccur from time to time.
In an adult patient, lymph node enlargement in the neck should be investigated carefully. Because cancers of the head and neck region may cause the lymph nodes in the neck to enlarge.
Situations that suggest that the lymph node may be caused by cancer are as follows:
- Fast and painless growth in a short time
- More than one
- The patient is older than 40 years of age
- The patient smokes and drinks alcohol
Apart from this, lymphoma and leukemia also cause enlargement of the lymph nodes. why could it be. In these diseases, there is usually rapid growth in many lymph nodes. Lymph nodes in different parts of the body may enlarge.
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF LYMPH NODE ENLARGEMENT
The patient should first undergo a full ENT examination and possible causes should be reviewed. If it is concluded that my lymph node is due to infection, It should be treated with appropriate antibiotics. If the patient is suspected of having lymphoma or cancer, a fine needle aspiration biopsy should be performed from the lymph node. When necessary, imaging techniques such as ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance should be used. If there is a problem in making a diagnosis and there is a suspicion of cancer, the lymph node should be surgically removed and pathological examination should be performed when necessary.
In summary, lymph node enlargement in the neck in childhood usually occurs due to infection-related reasons, and the possibility of cancer should be excluded in people over the age of 40.
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