Description
Lymph nodes drain lymph material from the surrounding area. They are located throughout the body. They may become enlarged for a number of reasons; the most common are a nearby infection, inflammation (lymphadenitis), or from cancer. The most common cause of enlarged lymph nodes in the groin is infection in the groin or genital area.
Symptoms
Large or tender lymph nodes, redness of the skin over the lymph node.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The work-up depends on the suspected cause of the enlarged lymph nodes. For the groin, a gonorrhea and Chlamydia urethral or cervical culture may be done. A biopsy of a lymph node may be recommended, especially if cancer is suspected.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The work-up depends on the suspected cause of the enlarged lymph nodes. For the groin, a gonorrhea and Chlamydia urethral or cervical culture may be done. A biopsy of a lymph node may be recommended, especially if cancer is suspected.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of the enlarged lymph nodes.