Lymphadenitis in a child: causes, types, symptoms, treatment

Bacterial disease that causes inflammation of the lymph nodes is called lymphadenitis. It is more typical for children. Most often, the lymphadenitis in the child is secondary, that is, it occurs against a background of some other pathology. In rare cases, the primary inflammation of the lymph nodes.

Lymphadenitis: causes and types

Lymph nodes are the organs of the system that protects the body and helps to remove unnecessary substances from tissues. They are found in the groin, armpits, on the neck, under the lower jaw, on the inside of the elbows. In a healthy child, they are invisible and soft. In the inflamed condition they become visible with the naked eye. Lymphadenitis in a child can be specific or nonspecific. In the first case, it can provoke the appearance of dangerous diseases, such as tuberculosis. However, this type of pathology is more typical for adults. In children, however, nonspecific lymphadenitis is more common, characterized by a specific inflammatory focus, that is, manifested in a particular area. It can develop when pathogens penetrate the lymph nodes, for example streptococci, staphylococci. Often this happens after the transferred inflammatory diseases: influenza, tonsillitis, tonsillitis, otitis, etc. Pathogens get into the body through mucous membranes, lesions on the skin, hematogenous way.

Lymphadenitis in a child can be purulent and non-purulent, and may also occur in acute or chronic form. Pathology can affect a single lymph node or a whole group of glands, close to each other located. In case of massive infection, the infection can pass to surrounding tissues and lead to adenophlegmon.

Lymphadenitis in the child: symptoms

Pathology in children is characterized by rapid and active development. In acute form, the temperature rises, sleep is disturbed, there is a headache, the child refuses to eat, becomes restless. Lymph nodes swell and hurt, especially in cervical lymphadenitis. With purulent pathology, reddening of the skin around the affected nodes can occur. Chronic lymphadenitis can be suspected only with palpation. Lymph nodes will be enlarged. However, the child feels well.

Lymphadenitis in a child: treatment

If the disease is detected at the initial stage, the doctor usually appoints as a therapy physiotherapeutic procedures, taking antibiotics. To properly assign treatment, sometimes a child takes a blood test. If the number of leukocytes in it exceeds the norm, we can talk about the presence of infection. In this case, therapy is directed at destroying its source. Compresses can also be used for treatment. If the pathological process is acute, accompanied by suppuration, surgery may be required.

Lymphadenitis in a child: prevention

To avoid the disease, you should monitor the personal hygiene of the child, support the child's body by taking vitamins, treat timely dental caries, make sure that the baby does not have any damage to the skin of the face or mucous membrane of the mouth.