Swollen or enlarged lymph nodes. See appropriate Lymph programs.Encyclopedia Entry for Lymphadenitis :Lymphadenitis. The lymph system (lymphatics) is a network of lymph nodes, lymph ducts, lymph vessels, and organs that produce and move a fluid called lymph from tissues to the bloodstream. The lymph glands, or lymph nodes, are small structures that filter the lymph fluid. There are many white blood cells in the lymph nodes to help fight infection. Lymphadenitis occurs when the glands become enlarged by swelling (inflammation), often in response to bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The swollen glands are usually found near the site of an infection, tumor, or inflammation. Lymphadenitis may occur after skin infections or other infections caused by bacteria such as streptococcus or staphylococcus. Sometimes, it is caused by rare infections such as tuberculosis or cat scratch disease (bartonella).Symptoms may include: Red, tender skin over lymph node Swollen, tender, or hard lymph nodes Fever Lymph nodes may feel rubbery if an abscess (pocket of pus) has formed or they have become inflamed.The health care provider will perform a physical exam. This includes feeling your lymph nodes and looking for signs of injury or infection around any swollen lymph nodes. A biopsy and culture of the affected area or node may reveal the cause of the inflammation. Blood cultures may reveal spread of infection to the bloodstream.Lymphadenitis may spread within hours. Treatment should begin right away. Treatment may include: Antibiotics to treat any infection Analgesics (painkillers) to control pain Anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce inflammation Cool compresses to reduce inflammation and pain Surgery may be needed to drain an abscess.Prompt treatment with antibiotics usually leads to a complete recovery. It may take weeks, or even months, for swelling to disappear.Untreated lymphadenitis may lead to: Abscess formation Cellulitis (a skin infection) Fistulas (seen in lymphadenitis that is due to tuberculosis) Sepsis (bloodstream infection).Call your provider or go to the emergency room if you have symptoms of lymphadenitis.Good general health and hygiene are helpful in the prevention of any infection.Lymph node infection; Lymph gland infection; Localized lymphadenopathy.Lymphatic system Lymphatic system Immune system structures Immune system structures.Pasternack MS, Swartz MN. Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis.