Swollen Lymph Nodes in Groin

Lymph nodes are a part of the body's lymphatic system, which also comprises organs, lymph ducts and lymph vessels. The lymphatic system carries out the important function of producing and transporting lymph (a translucent fluid) from tissues to the bloodstream. This helps in the trapping and subsequent destruction of bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances, consequently making the lymphatic system part of the human immune system.

Types of Lymph Nodes
Nodules of lymphatic system are present throughout the body, with major clusters found in the neck, armpit, and groin areas. The largest clusters of over 300 nodes are present in the face and neck region, and are termed cervical lymph nodes. The dense cluster present in the armpits are the axillary lymph nodes and those in the groin are called inguinal lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are fairly small, and even those closer to the surface cannot usually be felt. However, when they swell to about 1 or 1.5 cm, they can be felt if pressed on. Doctors often make use of this, feeling for swollen lymphs under the jaw line, when one complains of a sore throat or ear infection.

As we know, swollen lymph nodes are a symptom of a problem. Occasionally, the location of the swollen lymph nodes may help pinpoint the underlying problem. The reason for lymph nodes to swell in only one area could be an injury, infection, or tumor that develops in or around that area.

Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes
The following are common causes of swollen lymph nodes in groin, neck, armpits and other areas of the body:

• The cause for enlarged lymph nodes in groin (femoral or inguinal lymph nodes) could be an injury or infection in the foot, leg, groin, or genitals. The possibility of testicular cancer, lymphoma, or melanoma cannot be ruled out.
• The lymph nodes present on either side of the neck, under the jaw, or behind the ears, usually swell as the outcome of a cold or sore throat. While this occurs rarely, a cut or bite, near the nodes can cause swelling. Other causes include a tumor or infection in the head, mouth, or neck.
• Swollen glands above the collarbone (supraclavicular lymph nodes) may indicate a tumor or infection in the region of the neck, lungs, breasts or abdomen.
• Swollen axillary lymph nodes, i.e., those in the armpit, may be due to an injury or infection to the hand or arm. Infrequently, breast cancer or lymphoma can also cause swelling.

Generalized Lymphadenopathy Causes
When lymph nodes present in two or more regions of the body swell, it is called generalized lymphadenopathy and may be brought by a multitude of culprits. Some of them are:

• Viral infections are the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes. This includes other common infections such as strep throat, wound infections, mumps, mononucleosis, measles, infected (abscessed) tooth, rubella, chickenpox and ear infections.
• Immune system disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Some other infections that cause swollen lymph nodes are tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, cat scratch fever and a host of sexually transmitted diseases, such as syphilis.
• Cancers of the lymphatic system are well-known causes swelling. Leukemia also causes swelling, as well as any other cancers that have spread to the affected lymph nodes.
• There are a few extremely rare causes that cause the nodes to swell. They include certain medications, such as phenytoin (Dilantin), and certain immunizations, such as for malaria.

The location of lymph nodes in groin is in the lowest lateral regions of the abdomen just above either side of the genitals. If one identifies swollen lymph nodes in groin with severe symptoms like red, tender, hard nodes, it is of utmost importance to visit the doctor. In case, there are other symptoms like fever, night sweats or weight loss with the swollen lymph nodes then seek medical help immediately. The treatment of swollen lymph nodes in groin should focus on treating the underlying cause. However, many times the soreness of lymph nodes disappears within few days without any treatment. Though, for the nodes to return to their normal size, it might take several weeks even after the infection is gone.