11. Enlarged Lymph Nodes
There can be some situations in which lymph nodes become enlarged in the context of lymphedema:
- Infection: Infection is a concern for individuals with lymphedema because the compromised lymphatic system may not be as effective at fighting off infections. In response to an infection in the affected limb or area, nearby lymph nodes may become enlarged as they work to filter and process the infection.
- Cellulitis is a skin infection (usually caused by bacteria) that can occur in people with lymphedema, particularly in the affected limb. When cellulitis develops, it can cause inflammation and enlargement of regional lymph nodes as the body’s immune system responds to the infection.
- Inflammatory Reactions: In some cases, the swelling and changes in tissue associated with lymphedema can trigger inflammatory responses in the body, potentially leading to the enlargement of nearby lymph nodes. Furthermore, it may lead to lymphadenitis – an inflammatory condition of the lymph nodes. It also worsens the outcome and trigger various complications.