Lymphadenitis
Definition
Lymphadenitis is an infection of the lymph nodes (also called lymph glands). It is a complication of certain bacterial infections.
Alternative Names
Lymph node infection; Lymph gland infection; Localized lymphadenopathy
Causes
The lymph system (lymphatics) is a network of lymph nodes, lymph ducts, lymph vessels, and organs that produce and move a fluid called lymph from tissues to the bloodstream.
The lymph glands, or lymph nodes, are small structures that filter the lymph fluid. There are many white blood cells in the lymph nodes to help fight infection.
Lymphadenitis occurs when the glands become enlarged by swelling (inflammation), often in response to bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The swollen glands are usually found near the site of an infection, tumor, or inflammation.
Lymphadenitis may occur after skin infections or other infections caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus or Staphylococcus. Sometimes, it is caused by rare infections such as tuberculosis or cat scratch disease (Bartonella).
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Red, tender skin over lymph node
- Swollen, tender, or hard lymph nodes
- Fever
Lymph nodes may feel rubbery if an abscess (pocket of pus) has formed or they have become inflamed.
Exams and Tests
Your health care provider will perform a physical exam. This includes feeling your lymph nodes and looking for signs of injury or infection around any swollen lymph nodes.
A biopsy and culture of the affected area or node may reveal the cause of the inflammation. Blood cultures may reveal spread of infection (often bacteria) to the bloodstream.
Treatment
Lymphadenitis may spread within hours. Treatment should begin right away.
Treatment may include:
- Antibiotics to treat any bacterial infection
- Analgesics (painkillers) to control pain
- Anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce inflammation
- Cool compresses to reduce inflammation and pain
Surgery may be needed to drain an abscess.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Prompt treatment with antibiotics usually leads to a complete recovery. It may take weeks, or even months, for swelling to disappear.
Possible Complications
Untreated lymphadenitis may lead to:
- Abscess formation
- Cellulitis (a skin infection)
- Fistulas (seen in lymphadenitis that is due to tuberculosis)
- Sepsis (bloodstream infection), which can lead to death
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider or go to the emergency room if you have symptoms of lymphadenitis.
Prevention
Good general health and hygiene are helpful in the prevention of any infection.
References
Karan A, Pasternack MS. Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis. In: Blaser MJ, Cohen JI, Holland SM, et al, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2026:chap 97.
Liu C, Shopsin B, Chambers HF. Staphylococcal infections. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 267.
Stevens DL, Bisno AL, Chambers HF; Infectious Diseases Society of America, et al. Practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of skin and soft tissue infections: 2014 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis. 2014;59(2):e10-e52. Erratum in: Clin Infect Dis. 2015;60(9):1448. Dosage error in article text. PMID: 24973422 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24973422/.
Stevens DL, Bryant AE, Hagman MM. Nonpneumococcal streptococcal infections and rheumatic fever. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 269.
Review Date:5/12/2025
Reviewed By:Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Roy and Diana Vagelos Professor in Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, New York, NY. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
The Agency for Health Care Administration (Agency) and this website do not claim the information on, or referred to by, this site is error free. This site may include links to websites of other government agencies or private groups. Our Agency and this website do not control such sites and are not responsible for their content. Reference to or links to any other group, product, service, or information does not mean our Agency or this website approves of that group, product, service, or information.
Additionally, while health information provided through this website may be a valuable resource for the public, it is not designed to offer medical advice. Talk with your doctor about medical care questions you may have.
Health Outcome Data
No data available for this condition/procedure.
