Acute lymphadenitis is a rapid, usually painful enlargement of lymph nodes triggered by bacterial or viral infection. Typical features develop over hours to days and include:
- Swollen, tender node
A single node or regional group suddenly enlarges to pea-to-walnut size; the overlying skin feels hot and is painful to touch. - Red, warm skin
The surface becomes flushed and edematous as inflammation spreads from node to subcutaneous tissue. - Fluctuant mass
Central liquefaction produces a soft, “water-bed” sensation, indicating abscess formation. - Fever and chills
Temperature often rises to 38–39 °C with rigors, malaise, and night sweats. - Spontaneous drainage
If untreated, the abscess may rupture, releasing creamy pus and leaving a chronic sinus. - Restricted movement
Nodes in the neck, axilla, or groin limit head, arm, or leg motion because of pain and muscle splitting. - Associated source signs
Look for concurrent pharyngitis, dental infection, skin wound, or sexually transmitted genital ulcer that seeds the affected node chain.
Prompt antibiotic therapy and—if fluctuant—surgical drainage prevent progression to sepsis or chronic fistulation.
| Symptom | Typical Findings | Complication Flags |
|---|---|---|
| Node size | 1–3 cm, tender, firm | >3 cm, rubbery or hard |
| Skin | Red, warm, swollen | Dusky, necrotic centre |
| Temperature | 38–39 °C | >39 °C, rigors |
| Abscess | Fluctuant, throbbing | Spontaneous rupture |
| Movement | Painful limitation | Septic joint posture |
| Systemic | Anorexia, night sweats | Hypotension, tachycardia |