Lymphknotenausscheidung

Lymphknotenaus is a term of German origin that translates to "lymph node examination" or "lymph node check." It refers to the process of evaluating the lymph nodes for signs of disease. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that are part of the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in the body's immune response. They filter lymph fluid, trapping pathogens like bacteria and viruses, and house immune cells that fight infection.

Enlarged or tender lymph nodes, often called swollen glands, can be a symptom of various conditions, most commonly infection. Viral illnesses such as the common cold, flu, or mononucleosis frequently cause lymph node swelling, particularly in the neck. Bacterial infections, like strep throat or skin infections, can also lead to localized lymph node enlargement.

However, lymph node examination is also a critical component in the diagnosis and staging of cancer. In some cancers, such as lymphomas, the cancer originates in the lymph nodes themselves. In other cancers, such as breast cancer or melanoma, cancer cells can spread from the primary tumor to nearby lymph nodes, a process called metastasis. The examination of lymph nodes for cancer cells, often through biopsy, helps determine the extent of the disease and guide treatment decisions.

A physical examination involves a healthcare provider feeling the lymph nodes in areas like the neck, armpits, and groin for any abnormalities in size, consistency, or tenderness. Further investigations may include imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans, or a biopsy of the affected lymph node to obtain a definitive diagnosis.