Lymphatic issues
Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about lymphatic issues:
1.
Self-reported:
1.
On May 25, 2022, I discovered a movable, non-painful, neither soft nor hard mass on the right side of my neck.
2.
On May 25, 2022, I found a movable, non-painful, neither soft nor hard mass on the right side of my groin.
3.
On May 25, 2022, I noticed a movable, non-painful, neither soft nor hard mass on the left side of my groin, which I may have discovered earlier, specifically before going to bed when I felt it while playing.
4.
No masses were found under the armpit or behind the knee.
5.
No fever, itching, sweating, skin changes, or weight loss.
6.
Abdominal ultrasound on May 4, 2022: normal.
7.
On May 26, 2022, mild kidney stones, hydronephrosis, fecal impaction in the intestines, and urinary tract infection were noted.
8.
Gastroscopy on July 5, 2022: superficial gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, no Helicobacter pylori.
9.
Colonoscopy on July 5, 2022: 0.3 cm colonic hyperplastic polyp removed.
Mixed hemorrhoids.
10.
Low-dose CT scan on July 5, 2022: normal.
11.
Intravenous pyelography on July 5, 2022: suspected right renal ptosis.
12.
Anoscopy on August 15, 2022: three internal hemorrhoids with congestion, blood after defecation.
13.
Complete blood count on August 17, 2022: only MPV was abnormal at 6.2 (normal range 7.5-11.4).
14.
On August 17, 2022: negative for Hepatitis B and C.
15.
LDH: 179 (normal range 98-192).
16.
As of today: bilateral tennis elbow and slight gum pain around the last upper molar with daily flossing.
17.
As of today: the three lymphatic sites feel neither enlarged nor reduced.
2.
Other physicians performed ultrasound, endoscopy, and aspiration:
1.
On May 25, ultrasound showed a low-density ovoid mass about 1.1 cm in size just above the fascial layer over the right side of the neck.
The left inguinal region showed a normal lymph node at 0.9 cm.
The right inguinal region showed a normal lymph node at 0.6 cm.
2.
Nasopharyngoscopy on August 15: normal.
3.
Ultrasound (neck) and aspiration (neck) on August 23: (1) one lymphadenopathy measuring 7.4mm x 4.1mm x 14.1mm with hilum (+) over right neck zone V.
(2) Specimen: lymph node, right neck level V, aspiration, 1 air-dried slide x Quick Giemsa Stain, 1 alcohol-fixed slide x Papanicolaou Stain.
Interpretation: Non-diagnostic.
Presence of PMNs and RBCs only.
No discernible lymphoid cells are noted.
Re-aspirate if clinically needed.
3.
Questions:
1.
Is the size of the lymph nodes observed in the ultrasound within the normal range? Can the measurements vary between different physicians?
2.
With an LDH of 179 (normal range 98-192), is this value considered elevated? It seems to be gradually increasing and may soon exceed the upper limit.
Could this slow progression lead to exceeding 192?
3.
Regarding the statement "No discernible lymphoid cells are noted," is it possible that the aspiration was performed at the wrong location? I believe that if the correct area was aspirated, lymphoid cells should be present.
What does this statement imply?
4.
The self-reported examinations are based on recollections of tests conducted during that period.
What other tests can I undergo, Doctor?
5.
If it were lymphoma, could there be a situation where the lymph nodes in the neck are malignant while those in the groin are benign? Or would they all have to be either malignant or benign?
6.
After the left groin lymph node was excised on August 23, I was prescribed antibiotics (report not yet available), but the other two nodes have not decreased in size.
Could frequent palpation prevent them from shrinking? I am concerned that these three sites have not diminished for a long time.
4.
Regarding follow-up with the same physician for ultrasound monitoring of the same area, they stated there was no change, but I can palpate a distinct movable mass, so I am seeking a second opinion.
Thank you, Doctor.
Chris, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/28
Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology
Chris / 37 years old / Male
1.
Is the size of the lymph nodes observed through ultrasound within the normal range? Can the measurements vary between different physicians?
A: Generally, lymph nodes larger than 1 cm require further evaluation or biopsy, while those under 1 cm can be monitored.
2.
LDH 179 (normal range 98-192), is a value of 179 considered elevated? It seems to be gradually increasing and is approaching the upper limit.
Could this slow progression lead to exceeding 192?
A: Normal is normal; even if LDH is slightly above the normal range, it does not necessarily indicate a problem unless it exceeds 2-3 times the normal level.
3.
The statement "No discernible lymphoid cells are noted." Could this mean that the biopsy was taken from the wrong location? I believe that if the correct area was sampled, there should be lymphocytes present.
What does this statement imply?
A: If no cells were obtained, then none were obtained.
Unless you wish to repeat the biopsy or change to an excisional biopsy, that is the situation.
4.
Regarding the self-reported examinations, I am recalling what tests were performed during that period.
What other tests can I undergo, doctor?
A: The largest lymph node is 1.1 cm and has already been biopsied without yielding cells.
I recommend continued observation.
If there is no increase in size, further intervention may not be necessary.
5.
If it is lymphoma, can there be a situation where the cervical lymph nodes are malignant while the axillary nodes are benign? Or must they all be either malignant or benign?
A: Each lymph node is an independent entity.
6.
After the excision of the left axillary lymph node on 11/08/23, I was prescribed antibiotics (report not yet available), but the other two nodes have not decreased in size.
Could frequent palpation prevent them from shrinking? I am a bit worried as these three areas have not resolved for a long time...
A: It is possible that the presence of the vaccine could be a factor.
Some nodes may persist without increasing in size.
Frequent palpation is not advisable, as it can raise the local temperature and potentially stimulate growth.
Just continue with normal activities and self-monitor once a month.
If there is an increase in size, color change, or pain, consult a physician.
Wishing you well,
Taoyuan Hospital
Dr.
Chen Sih-Rong
Reply Date: 2022/08/28
More Info
Understanding lymph node issues can be quite complex, especially when it comes to interpreting medical reports and understanding the implications of various findings. Based on your detailed account, let's address your questions and concerns systematically.
1. Size of Lymph Nodes and Normal Ranges
The size of lymph nodes can vary significantly among individuals, and what is considered "normal" can depend on various factors, including the location of the lymph node and the individual's overall health. Generally, lymph nodes that are less than 1 cm in size are often considered normal, while those larger than 1 cm may warrant further investigation. In your case, the lymph nodes you mentioned (0.6 cm and 0.9 cm) are within the normal range, but the presence of a 1.1 cm mass could be a point of concern, especially if it is new or has changed in character.
2. LDH Levels
Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme that can be elevated in various conditions, including tissue damage, hemolysis, and malignancies. Your LDH level of 179 is within the normal range (98-192), but if you are noticing a trend of increasing levels, it would be wise to discuss this with your healthcare provider. An increasing LDH level can indicate underlying issues that may need further evaluation.
3. Interpretation of Non-Diagnostic Results
The phrase "No discernible lymphoid cells are noted" in your biopsy report suggests that the sample taken may not have contained enough lymphoid tissue for a definitive diagnosis. This could happen if the needle did not sample the lymph node adequately or if the lymph node was not the source of the problem. It is not uncommon for aspirates to yield non-diagnostic results, and a repeat aspiration may be necessary if clinically indicated.
4. Further Investigations
Given your concerns and the findings so far, further investigations could include:
- Repeat Ultrasound or CT Scan: To monitor the size and characteristics of the lymph nodes over time.
- Repeat Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): If there is still concern about the lymph node, a repeat FNA may provide more definitive results.
- Blood Tests: Additional blood tests, including complete blood count (CBC) and specific markers for infections or malignancies, could be helpful.
- Referral to a Specialist: If you haven't already, consider consulting a hematologist or an oncologist for a more specialized evaluation.
5. Malignancy Considerations
In cases of lymphoma or other malignancies, it is possible to have a mix of benign and malignant lymph nodes in different regions of the body. Lymphoma can present in various ways, and it is not uncommon for some lymph nodes to be affected while others remain normal. Therefore, the presence of benign lymph nodes in one area does not rule out malignancy in another.
6. Persistence of Lymph Nodes
The fact that the lymph nodes have not changed in size after the removal of one may be concerning, but it is not uncommon for lymph nodes to remain palpable for some time after an infection or inflammation. Frequent manipulation or palpation of lymph nodes can sometimes lead to a sensation of them being more prominent, but it does not typically affect their actual size. If they remain unchanged over a significant period or if you notice new symptoms, further evaluation would be warranted.
Conclusion
Your concerns about lymph nodes are valid, and it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. Regular follow-ups and monitoring are crucial, especially when there are changes or persistent findings. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion is always a reasonable course of action. Remember, early detection and intervention can significantly impact outcomes in cases of malignancy or other serious conditions.
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