adénopathie

Adénopathie, known in English as lymphadenopathy (adenopathy), refers to enlargement of one or more lymph nodes. Lymphadenopathy is a sign rather than a disease and can be localized to a region (for example, cervical nodes in a throat infection) or generalized, involving several regions. Onset can be acute or chronic.

Common causes include infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), inflammatory or autoimmune diseases (such as sarcoidosis or rheumatoid arthritis), malignancies (lymphomas and metastases from solid tumors), and rarely drug reactions. The clinical appearance helps guide evaluation: tender, soft, mobile nodes are more typical of benign infections, whereas hard, fixed nodes that enlarge rapidly, especially with supraclavicular involvement or systemic symptoms, may raise concern for malignancy.

Evaluation begins with a focused history and physical examination, noting region, duration, associated symptoms, and risk factors. Basic tests may include a complete blood count, inflammatory markers, and targeted serologies. Ultrasound is a useful, noninvasive first imaging tool for superficial nodes; CT or MRI may be employed for deeper or inconclusive cases. Definitive diagnosis often requires tissue sampling, with fine-needle aspiration or excisional biopsy. Biopsy is commonly indicated for persistent nodes, nodes with concerning features, or suspected cancer.

Management depends on the underlying cause. Many infectious nodes resolve with treatment or observation. Autoimmune conditions are managed per their criteria. Malignant lymphadenopathy requires oncology involvement and appropriate staging. Red flags—rapid growth, hard or fixed nodes, fever, night sweats, weight loss, or supraclavicular location—warrant urgent evaluation. Prognosis varies with etiology and timeliness of diagnosis.