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What Causes Swollen Inguinal Lymph Nodes?

Posted on Thu, 12 Feb 2015

Question: I have swollen inguinal lymph nodes. I've now had them for two weeks. I started with one, which was painful the first couple days, but the pain is completely gone. I sometimes only feel the one swollen lymph node, and other times feel multiple in the same area (on each side), all of which are painless. I had a normal pap smear about 4 months ago, and I feel pretty normal despite the swollen glands. I have made an appointment with my primary care, but will not be seen for another 3 weeks. should I push to be seen sooner? what could be the reasoning behind all of this?

Answered by Dr. Shanti Vennam (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Need further evaluation.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for posting your query.

Presence of enlarged lymph nodes in the inguinal region is a pretty common finding. This can be due to several reasons ranging from simple infections of the lower limbs, vasculitis, genito-urinary infections, sexually transmitted diseases and so on.

If associated with other symptoms like fever, rashes, vaginal discharge, generalized lymphadenopathy, further investigation is needed. This can include a complete blood picture, vaginal swab, cervical swab, urinalysis, examination of the sexual partner, and biopsy of the nodes.

In the current scenario, you should make arrangements to see your health care provider as soon as possible. Abstain from any sexual intercourse, if you are sexually active, until a proper diagnosis is made and treatment given.

Hope your query has been answered. Please feel free to contact for further information. I will be happy to help.

regards,
Shanti.V.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shanti Vennam (14 minutes later)

thank you for your time. The only symptom I find is the swollen glands. I am married, and have had the same sexual partner for two years. I was tested for STD's 4 months ago, and everything came back negative. I went to the ER 2 weeks ago (due to the swollen lymph nodes ), and was tested for a UTI with negative results (which is not surprising since I have no symptoms ). Last year I lost about 10 pounds within a few days. (I was unable to eat because a family member had passed, and I was too emotional.) I have been unable to gain weight back since, even with a healthy diet and exercise. I'm 22 years old, 5'11 and only weigh roughly 125lbs. could this at all be related?

Answered by Dr. Shanti Vennam (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
May need lymph node biopsy.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for writing back.

In the current situation, you may need to go for a lymph node biopsy and AFB test. A complete blood picture to look for abnormal cells also should be done. Vaginal swab and tests for STDs may be repeated.

Please see a physician for further management.

Hope your query has been clarified. Please get back if you need further help. I will be glad to do so.

regards,
Shanti.V.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shanti Vennam (10 minutes later)

My appointment is in 3 weeks, should I try to get an appointment sooner?

Answered by Dr. Shanti Vennam (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for writing again.

I feel that you should try to see the doctor sooner, as early as possible. This will facilitate earlier intervention. Please contact if you need any more suggestions.

Wish you good health.

regards,
Shanti.V.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar