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Lymphadenopathy is a term meaning "disease of the lymph nodes." It is, however, almost synonymously used with "swollen/enlarged lymph nodes".
When the infection is of the lymph nodes themselves, it is called lymphadenitis, but when the infection is of the lymph channels, it is called lymphangitis.
Associated conditions
Enlarged lymph nodes are a common symptom in a number of infectious and cancerous diseases. It is a recognized symptom of many diseases, which include:
- immunocompromised etiology: AIDS. Generalized lymphadenopathy is an early sign of infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). "Lymphadenopathy syndrome" has been used to describe the first symptomatic stage of HIV progression, preceding AIDS-related complex and full-blown AIDS.[2]
Patterns of Benign (Reactive) Lymphadenopathy
There are three distinct patterns of benign lymphadenopathy:
- Follicular hyperplasia. Seen in infections, autoimmune disorders, and nonspecific reactions.
- Paracortical hyperplasia. Seen in viral infections, skin diseases, and nonspecific reactions.
- Sinus histiocytosis. Seen in lymph nodes draining limbs, inflammatory lesions, and malignancies.
Bilateral Hilar Lymphadenopathy (BHL)
Bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy is a radiographic term that describes the enlargement of mediastinal lymph nodes. It is easily and most commonly identified by a chest x-ray.
Causes of BHL
The following are causes of BHL:[3]
- Sarcoidosis
- Infection
- Malignancy
- Lymphoma
- Carcinoma
- Mediastinal Tumours
- Organic Dust Disease
- Extrinsic Allergic Alveolitis
- Such as pigeon fancier's lung
- Less common causes also exist: (needs citation)
References
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