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Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin is an inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes due to the penetration of infection through the lymphatic vessels.
There are superficial and deep inguinal lymph nodes, they receive lymph from the perineum, rectum, lower abdominal wall, genitals and legs. Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin can be associated with many serious reasons, so you should definitely see a doctor.
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Causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin
There are many causes for this disease, but the most common are:
- Malignant tumors;
- Bacterial infections (staph, streptococcus, tuberculosis, cat scratch disease);
- Viral infections (herpes, measles, rubella);
- Fungal infections (Candida);
- Sarcoidosis;
- Transplant rejection;
- Injuries in the groin area;
- Sexually transmitted diseases (syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia).
If swelling and pain appear suddenly, it is due to infection or injury. On the other hand, if they become inflamed gradually, it may be a sign of a tumor or malignancy.
Symptoms of Inflammation of the Lymph Nodes in the Groin
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin is accompanied by symptoms such as: redness in the area of inflammation, pain when pressing on the lymph node, swelling and compaction of the lymph nodes in the groin, pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen when moving. With superficial damage, inflammation manifests itself as a local increase in temperature. With purulent inflammation, the patient's condition worsens and is accompanied by intoxication syndrome (subfebrile temperature, chills, headache, general weakness), inflammatory changes in the blood (leukocytosis, increased SHOE).
In oncological diseases, enlarged lymph nodes remain painless for a long time, so the diagnosis of cancer is made in the last stages, which greatly complicates the treatment of such patients.
In venereal diseases, the clinical picture is not as pronounced as in oncological and purulent diseases, and is characterized by local lymphadenitis.
Where does it hurt?
Diagnosis of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin
Diagnosis of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin first of all begins with examination of the patient, collection of complaints. Examination consists of palpation of the lymph nodes, when inflamed they will be swollen and compacted, painful when pressed, the skin above them will be reddish. Normally, the lymph nodes are the size of a pea, not compacted, painless.
Also, laboratory research methods are used in diagnostics to detect inflammation - this is a general blood test (leukocytosis, accelerated SOC), blood biochemistry (C-reactive protein).
If diagnostics are difficult, additional examination methods are used, such as CT, MRI, ultrasound of the abdominal organs. If tuberculosis is suspected, chest X-rays are taken.
A biopsy is used when a malignant process is suspected.
What do need to examine?
How to examine?
Who to contact?
Treatment of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin
What to do if inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin is detected?
First of all, you need to see a doctor. After all, this is not an independent process, but most often a symptom of another disease.
Of course, inflammation of the lymph nodes as an independent form has the right to exist, but only as a complication of primary foci, such as a furuncle, abscess, and others.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes is treated by two methods - conservatively and surgically.
In the early stages, a conservative treatment method is used with the use of drugs such as:
- broad-spectrum antibiotics (amoxicillin for adults, single dose 250-500 mg, in severe cases up to 1 g. The interval between doses is 8 hours. Do not use if you have an allergy, infectious mononucleosis). Mandatory consultation with a doctor.
- Ointments with antibacterial and antiseptic properties - this is Levomekol used locally, a sterile gauze bandage with ointment is applied to the affected area, it cannot be used if there is an allergy to the components of this ointment in purulent processes. Vishnevsky ointment is used externally, a thin layer is applied to the affected area. With prolonged use, an allergic reaction is possible.
- Physiotherapy with anti-inflammatory effect using electrophoresis with antibiotics and sulfonamides. Can be used only in the initial period of inflammation, strictly prohibited in purulent processes.
Surgical treatment is used in situations where inflammation becomes purulent. This method is based on the incision and release of pus by drainage.
At home, inflammation of the lymph nodes can be treated with folk methods, some recipes are provided below:
- Treatment with nettle
It has anti-inflammatory properties. 1 tbsp. is brewed in a glass of boiling water, after which the decoction should be infused for half an hour. After straining, drink half a glass before meals.
- Treatment with blueberries
Blueberries should be crushed and filled with warm water. Take 1 glass after meals.
- Treatment with dandelions
Dandelion root powder should be taken 1 tablespoon before meals.
More information of the treatment
Prevention of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin
Prevention of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin consists of prevention
Infection of wounds using antiseptics (iodine, brilliant green, hydrogen peroxide, etc.) in the treatment of diseases and primary lesions (abscesses, boils, etc.).
Prognosis of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin
The prognosis in the early stages of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin and adequate treatment is favorable. In destructive forms, the lymphatic tissue is destroyed and replaced by connective tissue. If inflammation is not treated, this can lead to the development of lymphostasis and lymphedema.