Adenitis

Adenitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of one or more lymph nodes. This inflammation is typically a response to infection, autoimmune disease, or malignancy. Adenitis can occur in any area of the body where lymph nodes are present, such as the neck, armpit, and groin.

Causes

Adenitis is most commonly caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Bacterial infections such as Streptococcus or Staphylococcus are frequent causes. Viral infections that can lead to adenitis include mononucleosis and HIV. In some cases, adenitis may result from autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of adenitis is swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes. Depending on the location of the affected lymph nodes, symptoms can also include pain, warmth at the site, and redness of the skin over the nodes. If the adenitis is due to an infection, systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and malaise may also be present.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of adenitis typically involves a physical examination, during which a healthcare provider will check for swollen lymph nodes. Additional diagnostic tests may include blood tests to look for signs of infection or inflammation, imaging studies like ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan to assess the affected nodes, and possibly a lymph node biopsy to determine the exact cause of the inflammation.

Treatment

Treatment of adenitis depends on the underlying cause. If the condition is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics are usually prescribed. Viral infections generally require supportive care, such as rest and hydration. For adenitis caused by autoimmune diseases, treatment may involve immunosuppressants or other medications that target the immune system.

Prognosis

The prognosis for adenitis varies depending on the underlying cause but is generally good with appropriate treatment. Most infections that cause adenitis can be effectively treated with antibiotics or other therapies.

See Also

• Lymphadenopathy
• Lymphatic system
• Infection