Concerns About Lymph Node Near Greater Trochanter: What to Do?

Suspected lymphadenopathy near the right greater trochanter?

On October 5th, I visited a rehabilitation specialist due to greater trochanteric bursitis.
Before the appointment, I noticed a slightly raised area near the affected site (which I discovered only after the injury; it wasn't there before).
The doctor performed an ultrasound and found fluid accumulation due to the bursitis, as well as something resembling lymph tissue nearby (the doctor suspected it was lymphatic).
At that time, the doctor mentioned there was some swelling, but it appeared to be nothing to worry about, speculating it was due to inflammation in that area.

However, after nearly a week of rehabilitation, while the bursitis seems to be gradually improving, the area still feels raised, and the lymphatic tissue does not seem to have diminished, which makes me quite anxious.
Currently, my overall health seems normal, my weight is stable, and the only issue is the greater trochanteric bursitis.
When I touch the area, it feels somewhat firm; it should be movable, but not noticeably so.
Since the location is close to the greater trochanter, I'm not entirely sure if that's the case.
It doesn't feel particularly painful, but I'm worried it could be something serious.
Should I go to a major hospital for further examination? If so, which department should I visit? Thank you.

Daniel, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/10

Dr. Wu Zongying reply Family Medicine

Based on your description in the letter, it should not be the "bad thing" you are worried about.
You do not need to touch it frequently; I believe it is likely a benign change (possibly due to inflammation).
If you want to confirm, you can visit an orthopedic specialist for an examination.

Reply Date: 2020/10/10

More Info

When it comes to concerns about a lymph node near the greater trochanter, it's understandable to feel anxious, especially after discovering a lump in that area. Based on your description, it seems that you have been evaluated by a physician who performed an ultrasound and noted that the lump is likely a lymph node associated with the inflammation from your bursitis. Here’s a breakdown of what you should consider moving forward.

Understanding Lymph Nodes and Inflammation
Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in your immune response. They can become enlarged due to various reasons, including infections, inflammation, or malignancies. In your case, the physician suggested that the enlargement is likely due to the inflammation from the bursitis, which is a common and benign condition. The fact that the lymph node is mobile and not painful is generally a good sign, as painful and fixed lymph nodes can sometimes raise more concern.

Follow-Up and Monitoring
Given that you have been experiencing improvement in your bursitis, it is not uncommon for lymph nodes to take some time to return to their normal size after the underlying inflammation has resolved. However, if the lymph node remains enlarged or if you notice any changes such as increased firmness, pain, or new symptoms, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation.

When to Seek Further Evaluation
1. Persistence of Symptoms: If the lymph node does not decrease in size over the next few weeks or continues to feel hard, it may warrant further investigation.

2. New Symptoms: If you develop any new symptoms such as fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or persistent fatigue, these could be signs that require immediate attention.

3. Duration: If the lymph node remains enlarged for more than a few weeks after the bursitis has resolved, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

Which Specialist to See
If you decide to seek further evaluation, you may consider visiting a primary care physician first, who can assess your condition and refer you to a specialist if necessary. Depending on the findings, you might be referred to:
- An orthopedic specialist: Since your initial concern was related to bursitis, they can provide insights into whether the lymph node's persistence is related to your musculoskeletal condition.

- A hematologist or oncologist: If there are any concerns about the nature of the lymph node, these specialists can perform further evaluations, including imaging studies or biopsies if needed.

Conclusion
In summary, while the initial assessment suggests that the lymph node enlargement is likely benign and related to inflammation, it is essential to monitor the situation. If you have any concerns or if the lymph node does not resolve, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are key to ensuring your health and peace of mind.

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