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Swollen Glands
Alternate Names : Glands - Swollen, Lymph Nodes - Swollen, Swollen Lymph Nodes
Definition
The term "swollen glands" refers to enlargement of one or more lymph nodes.
In a child, a node is enlarged if it is larger than one centimeter (0.4 inch) in diameter.
See also lymphadenitis and lymphangitis.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview & Considerations
Lymph nodes are glands that play an important part in your body's defense against infection. They produce lymph, which travels throughout your body in the lymph system, and filters impurities in your body.
Common areas where the lymph nodes can be felt (known as palpable nodes) include:
- Groin area (inguinal region)
- Armpit (axilla)
- Neck (there is a chain of lymph nodes on either side of the front of the neck, both sides of the neck, and down each side of the back of the neck)
- Under the jaw and chin
- Behind the ears
- On the back of the head (occiput)
The lymph nodes can become swollen. This generally results from infection, inflammatory conditions, an abscess, or cancer. Other causes of enlarged lymph nodes are extremely rare. By far, the most common cause of lymph node enlargement is infection.
As a rule, when swelling appears suddenly and is painful, it is usually caused by injury or an infection. Enlargement that comes on gradually and painlessly may result from cancer or a tumor.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Swollen Glands: Overview & Considerations
• Swollen Glands: Common Causes
• Swollen Glands: Home Care & Treatment
• Call your Health Care Provider if
• What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Abscess
• Gingivitis
• HIV Infection
• Hodgkin's Lymphoma
• Lymphadenitis and Lymphangitis
• Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
• Tumor
Tests & Exams
• Blood Differential
• CBC
• Chest X-Ray
• Kidney Function Tests
• Liver Function Tests
• Liver Scan
• Lymph Node Biopsy
Other Topics
• Lymph System
• Mouth Sores
Review Date : 11/25/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Alan Greene, M.D., F.A.A.P., Chief Medical Officer, A.D.A.M.; Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine; Attending Physician, Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford (3/3/2002).
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