Swollen lymph nodes

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Complications

By Mayo Clinic staff

If infection is the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and isn't treated, these complications might occur:

  • Abscess formation. An abscess is a localized collection of pus caused by an infection. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue and bacteria or other invaders. An abscess may require drainage and antibiotic treatment. An abscess may cause significant damage if it involves a vital organ.
  • Bloodstream infection (bacteremia). A bacterial infection anywhere in your body can progress to sepsis, caused by an overwhelming infection of the bloodstream. Sepsis may result in organ failure and death. Treatment involves hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics.
Preparing for your appointment Causes
References
  1. Armitage JO. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, et al. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/224582198-6/0/1492/0.html. Accessed Oct. 29, 2010.
  2. Fletcher RH. Evaluation of peripheral lymphadenopathy in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 6, 2010.
  3. Henry PH, et al. Enlargement of lymph nodes and spleen. In: Fauci AS, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw Hill Medical; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2875326. Accessed Dec. 6, 2010.
  4. Lymphadenitis. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/sec10/ch119/ch119j.html#sec10-ch119-ch119j-691. Accessed Dec. 5, 2010.
  5. Mohler ER, et al. Lymphedema: Etiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 6, 2010.
  6. Rosenberg TL, et al. Evaluating the adult patient with a neck mass. Medical Clinics of North America. 2010;94:1017.
  7. Anderson CF (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dec. 7, 2010.
DS00880 Jan. 22, 2011

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