[23F] With lymph node swelling and aching pain

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female reports a 4-week history of lymph node swelling in the armpit, which has spread down the right side of her body. She describes the swelling as just enlarged, accompanied by an aching pain above the ribs. The patient notes discomfort in the surrounding area of the swollen lymph nodes. She has not experienced any recent weight changes and has no known drug allergies or pre-existing conditions. The patient is not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible causes for your symptoms include:

  • Infection: Swollen lymph nodes are often a sign that your body is fighting off an infection. The swelling is usually caused by an increased number of white blood cells, which are part of your immune system.

    • Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying infection, which may require antibiotics or other medications.
  • Lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the body's immune system, specifically in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Lymphoma can cause lymph nodes to become enlarged, and it may also cause pain in the areas where the lymph nodes are located.

    • Treatment for lymphoma can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these. The exact treatment plan will depend on the type and stage of the lymphoma.
  • Other types of cancer: In some cases, cancer that starts in another part of the body can spread to the lymph nodes. This is known as metastatic cancer.

    • Treatment for metastatic cancer can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, or a combination of these. The exact treatment plan will depend on the type and stage of the cancer.

Please note that these are potential causes based on the symptoms you've described. Only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Given the duration and nature of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and order tests such as blood tests or imaging studies to help determine the cause of your symptoms.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Rapidly increasing size of the lymph nodes
  • Hard, immovable lymph nodes
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Night sweats
  • Persistent fever

Remember, I am an AI and this advice is based on the information you provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the armpit?

Common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the armpit include infections (such as bacterial or viral infections), immune system disorders, and cancers like lymphoma or metastatic cancer.


How can I differentiate between an infection and lymphoma based on symptoms?

Infections often cause swollen lymph nodes that are tender and may be accompanied by symptoms like fever or localized pain. Lymphoma may cause persistent swelling, aching pain, and systemic symptoms like night sweats or unexplained weight loss. A definitive diagnosis requires medical evaluation.


What tests might a doctor order to diagnose the cause of swollen lymph nodes?

A doctor might order blood tests to check for signs of infection or other abnormalities, imaging studies like an ultrasound or CT scan to assess the lymph nodes, and possibly a biopsy to examine the lymph node tissue for cancer cells.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for swollen lymph nodes?

You should seek immediate medical attention if you notice rapidly increasing size of the lymph nodes, hard and immovable lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or a persistent fever.


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