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Lymphadenopathy is defined as an abnormality in size and consistency of lymph nodes, while the term lymphadenitis refers to lymphadenopathy that occurs from infectious and other inflammatory processes. Lymph node enlargement is a common finding on physical examinations of children. In fact, the absence of any palpable lymph node in the presence of symptoms that suggest infection in a drainage area should raise suspicion for an immunodeficiency disease. The presence of an enlarged lymph node may be a source of anxiety in parents because of its association with malignancy. Although infections are the most common cause of lymph node enlargement, clinicians must be aware of a broad range of other disease processes that lead to lymph node enlargement.
The lymphatic system is comprised of lymphatic vessels and lymphoid organs. The lymphatic vessels transport interstitial fluid back to the circulating blood. Lymph...
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