Groin Swelling & Lymph Nodes: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

Question
I know that groin nodes drain the lower lymphatics, and they are generally larger than cervical or axillary nodes (up to 2.5cm is normal I think I remember reading). For the last couple of years they have been kind of sore/tender in nature, bother me when I stretch the groin or exercise. However, the morning after I started my first clinical rotation I noticed an even larger, more tender swelling in my left groin, which I assumed was a lymph node. I thought maybe it had to do with the change in pace and being on my feet all day. I didn't have any type of infection at that time. After about a week or so the tenderness went away, but the area was still enlarged, even though the size did go down a little bit. Health care professionals make the worst patients you know... I know that lymph nodes should be biopsied if they don't go away after 4 weeks. I have a chronically enlarged node in my neck, that has been followed in the past and has shown no changes at all. I guess I should mention the groin node... as well as the TINY supraclavicular node that I've had for about 9 months (this may even just be a tendon for all I know- plus I do regular SBE and have CBE every year, including just a couple of months ago, and there were no findings. However, my gyne did check nodes... not even axillary... and I don't make a habit out of questioning health care professionals that are of higher status than myself). I guess I just feel stupid bringing up little things like this. Anyway, thanks for your time... another persons confirmation of my own thinking makes me feel better about bringing these issues up with my doc.

Answer -
Hi Leigh-Anne,
Ofcourse, it would be best to evaluate the make up of the stone. As you are aware, dehydration is a main cause of renal litiasis. Gout from dietary manipulation, chronic low grade urinary infections and parathyroid disease are other things to consider. You have done a lot already, but chronic recurrent stones indicate a metabolic or renal specific problem and really deserve a closely followed work up.
I am concerned that you have swelling of groin nodes when you "get infections". This shouldn't happen unless of course the infections are distal to the groin. Have these nodes been evaluated?


Answer
Hi Leigh-Anne,
The only thing I can say to this is don't let your medical knowledge get in the way of your health. Ask any and all questions. Think of how it would be if a patient of yours did the same thing. I think a biopsy would be a good idea, especially if these nodes have multiple locations.