In general, these nodes are small, measuring less than 5 mm. Such nodes when found in an otherwise healthy population are clinically insignificant and require no further imaging.Enlarged lymph nodes on CT in the pelvis can be present because of infections, inflammatory conditions, cancer, or even medications. Enlarged lymph nodes in the pelvis are those which are abnormally shaped or larger than typical. Unfortunately, distinguishing those lymph nodes that are from benign conditions and cancer may not be possible without biopsy. Multiple markedly enlarged lymph nodes in the pelvis that are greater than say 2 centimeters and matted raise concern for something like lymphoma. Lymphoma is a blood cancer and can be limited to the nodes or involve structures outside the lymph nodes. Lymphoma staging often involves imaging the body with CT or PET scan. Spread of cancer to the lymph nodes in the pelvis is another cause of enlarged lymph nodes. Many types of cancer produce enlarged lymph nodes in the pelvis on CT but some of the more common ones are prostate cancer, gynecological cancer, and cancers of the extremities. Often there will be a history of cancer or associated findings.Įnlarged lymph nodes in the pelvis on CT can be seen with systemic infections like HIV/AIDS which can cause lymphadenopathy in the body. Autoimmune conditions like lupus or arthritis like rheumatoid can cause lymphadenopathy. Infections like Syphilis, flu, fungus can cause more generalized lymph node enlargement.More systemic conditions will result in more generalized enlarged lymph nodes not isolated to the pelvis.Įnlarged lymph nodes in the pelvis are common when there are infections or inflammatory conditions of the legs and feet. Ulcers or infections of the skin result in enlarged lymph nodes on CT. These infections will often be apparent to the clinical doctor.Įnlarged lymph nodes in the pelvis on CT can therefore have many causes. When lymph nodes are markedly enlarged and matted, than lymphoma becomes the main consideration. Enlarged lymph nodes can also occur because of spread of cancer, infections, inflammatory conditions or more generalized illnesses. Lymph nodes can also enlarge due to cancer in the lymphatic system, such as Hodgkin disease.It is often not possible to tell the cause of the lymph node enlargement without a biopsy. Sometimes, the lymph nodes themselves can become inflamed and enlarged, a condition called lymphadenitis. However, the lymphadenopathy may be generalized, with lymph node enlargement in more than one area, which is typical of a viral illness. Swollen lymph nodes around the jaw may be due to an infection in the teeth or mouth. For example, an infant with a scalp infection may have enlarged lymph nodes at the back of the neck. Since enlarged lymph nodes are often near the source of infection, their location can help determine the cause. Bacterial infections, such as strep throat caused by the streptococcus bacterium, can also cause lymphadenopathy. Nearly all children will develop lymphadenopathy at some time, as the condition commonly occurs in response to an infection from a virus, such as an upper respiratory infection. As infection-fighting cells and fluid accumulate, the lymph nodes enlarge to many times their normal size. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and functions to fight disease and infections.
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