Approach to the Patient with Lymphadenopathy（方法患者淋巴结病）.pdf

R e v i e w o f C l i n i c a l S i g n s Series Editor: Bernard M. Karnath, MD Approach to the Patient with Lymphadenopathy Bernard M. Karnath, MD ymphadenopathy refers to one or more lymph nodes that are abnormal in size, consistency, or KEY FACTORS IN EVALUATION OF number. Lymphadenopathy can be due to a Lbenign, self-limited process or may be a sign of LYMPHADENOPATHY a serious underlying disease. Infections, malignancy, Age of patient and immunologic disorders account for most cases of Location of lymphadenopathy lymphadenopathy (Table 1). This article reviews the Systemic signs/symptoms diagnostic approach to the patient with localized or Presence/absence of splenomegaly generalized lymphadenopathy and discusses common, Size, consistency, tenderness, and fixation of lymph important systemic illnesses that may cause generalized nodes lymphadenopathy. History of exposures EVALUATION OF LYMPHADENOPATHY Drug history Key factors to consider when evaluating a patient with lymphadenopathy include the age of the patient, location of the lymphadenopathy, associated symp- t