Evaluation of lymphadenopathy

Lymphadenopathy is defined as lymph nodes that are abnormal in size (>1 cm), consistency or number.[1]Gaddey HL, Riegel AM. Unexplained lymphadenopathy: evaluation and differential diagnosis. Am Fam Physician. 2016 Dec 1;94(11):896-903. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/1201/p896.html http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27929264?tool=bestpractice.com

The extent of lymphadenopathy is defined as localized when it involves only one region, and generalized when it involves more than one region.

Lymphadenopathy is commonly encountered by physicians in clinical practice and requires a comprehensive evaluation.

When initiating a workup, the physician should pay close attention to the size, location, consistency and number of enlarged lymph nodes, as well as to the patient's age, duration of lymphadenopathy, exposures, and any associated symptoms.[1]Gaddey HL, Riegel AM. Unexplained lymphadenopathy: evaluation and differential diagnosis. Am Fam Physician. 2016 Dec 1;94(11):896-903. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/1201/p896.html http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27929264?tool=bestpractice.com

Etiologies of lymphadenopathy can include infection, cancer, autoimmune conditions, granulomatous disease, collagen vascular disease, and atypical lymphoproliferative disorders.[2]Kozuch P, Grossbard ML. Lymphadenopathy. In: Clinical hematology and oncology. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone; 2003;213-20.[3]Habermann TM, Steensma DP. Lymphadenopathy. Mayo Clin Proc. 2000 Jul;75(7):723-32. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10907389?tool=bestpractice.com While the cause of lymphadenopathy is often apparent after a careful history and physical exam, further testing may be required and may include investigation with microbiologic and serologic tests, imaging and/or biopsy.