May also be called: Swollen Lymph Nodes; Swollen Lymph Glands; Lymph Gland Infection; Lymph Node Infection
Lymphadenitis (lim-fad-uh-NIE-tis) is inflammation of a lymph node caused by an infection of the tissue in the node.
The lymphatic system, which runs throughout the body, is part of the immune system. It helps to fight off infections by eliminating things like bacteria, viruses, and fungi from the body. Lymph nodes are small structures that filter foreign materials from a fluid called lymph. They're found all along the lymphatic system and are most evident in the neck, armpit, and groin.
Lymphadenitis can be a complication of many different infections and is usually found in the area of an infection, inflammation, or tumor.
Lymphadenitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection that can be easily treated with an antibiotic. When the cause of the lymphadenitis is treated, the inflammation in the lymph nodes should go away.
All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.
