[28F] Experiencing swollen lymph nodes and worsening eczema rash

Patient Description

A 28-year-old female presents with swollen lymph nodes at the base of the skull, neck, and collarbone area on the right side of the body, which have been present for 4 days. She describes two of the nodes as very large, hard, and fixed, with others being smaller, rubbery, and movable. Additionally, she reports a long-standing history of eczema, with a recent exacerbation of the rash that is red, crusty, and very itchy, located on the back of the neck, near the largest lymph node. The rash has been present for a few years but has recently worsened. The patient denies any recent weight changes, fever, night sweats, unintentional weight loss, difficulty breathing, or swallowing. She has not been exposed to anyone with similar symptoms, has not traveled recently, and does not have any known allergies or adverse reactions to medications. No current medications are being taken, and there is no other significant past medical history reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions include:

Infection: Swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of an infection. The fact that your lymph nodes are localized to one side of your body and are painful suggests this could be a localized infection. The rash could be related to this infection.
- Treatment typically involves antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the cause of the infection.
Dermatitis: Given your history of eczema and the description of your rash, it's possible that you're experiencing a severe flare-up of dermatitis. This could potentially lead to secondary infection, which might explain the swollen lymph nodes.
- Treatment typically involves topical steroids to reduce inflammation and itching. If a secondary infection is present, antibiotics may be needed.
Lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. While this is less likely given your age and lack of other symptoms (like fever, night sweats, or weight loss), the presence of large, hard, and fixed lymph nodes could be a sign of this condition.
- Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other cancer treatments.

What you can do

Consult a healthcare professional: Given your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. They can perform a physical examination and possibly order tests like blood work or a biopsy of the lymph nodes or rash to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as the size of the lymph nodes or the severity of the rash. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.
Skin care: Continue to take care of your skin as you normally would for your eczema. This might include moisturizing regularly, avoiding harsh soaps, and avoiding scratching the rash.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Difficulty breathing or swallowing
High fever or chills
Rapid increase in size of the lymph nodes
Worsening of your rash despite usual care

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

1

Hugs

0

Comments

Save

11 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Sore Throat: At-Home Management