Last Updated on December 1, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

Differentiating between the two blood cancers and what causes swollen lymph nodes armpit in kids. Did you know that swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of a serious condition? Lymphoma and leukemia are cancers that can make lymph nodes swell. Even though they look similar, they need different treatments.

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can have many causes. These include infections, injuries, and cancers like lymphoma and leukemia. Knowing the difference between these conditions is key for the right treatment.

Key Takeaways

• Lymphoma and leukemia are two distinct types of cancer that can cause swollen lymph nodes.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can be a sign of an underlying infection or cancer.
• Proper diagnosis is critical for effective treatment of lymphoma and leukemia.
• Understanding the differences between lymphoma and leukemia can help patients seek the right medical care.
• Swollen lymph nodes can be caused by various factors, including infections and injuries.

Understanding Lymphoma and Leukemia: Key Differences

Lymphoma and leukemia are blood cancers but differ in where they start in the body. Lymphoma begins in the lymphatic system, a key part of our immune system. Leukemia starts in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made.

Definition and Basic Characteristics

Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. It causes lymph nodes to swell because of abnormal lymphocyte growth. There are two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, based on the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It’s marked by too many white blood cells, made in the bone marrow. It can be acute or chronic, depending on how fast it grows.

Origin and Development in the Body

Lymphoma starts in lymph nodes or other lymphoid tissues like the spleen or tonsils. The cancerous lymphocytes make lymph nodes swell. On the other hand, leukemia begins in the bone marrow, where abnormal white blood cells are made. These cells then enter the blood, affecting normal blood cell production.

Relationship Between These Blood Cancers

Even though lymphoma and leukemia are different, they can both cause swollen lymph nodes. This can happen in the armpit, neck, or groin. Knowing the differences is key for the right diagnosis and treatment.

Characteristics	Lymphoma	Leukemia
Origin	Lymphatic system	Bone marrow
Primary affected cells	Lymphocytes	White blood cells
Common symptoms	Swollen lymph nodes, fever, weight loss	Fatigue, weight loss, frequent infections

The Lymphatic System: Structure and Function

To understand how lymphoma and leukemia affect us, we must first know about the lymphatic system. It’s a key part of our immune defense. It has vessels, organs, and tissues that work together to keep us safe from infections and diseases.

Components of the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, vessels, the spleen, tonsils, and thymus. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph fluid. They trap bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Lymphatic vessels carry lymph fluid all over the body.

• Lymph nodes: Filter lymph fluid and trap pathogens.
• Lymphatic vessels: Transport lymph fluid throughout the body.
• Spleen: Filters the blood and stores lymphocytes.
• Tonsils: Trap pathogens entering through the mouth or nose.
• Thymus: Matures T lymphocytes.

Role in Immune Function

The lymphatic system is vital for our immune function. It helps defend us against infections and diseases. It does this by producing and moving lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that fight infections.

“The lymphatic system is essential for the body’s immune response, acting as a filter for harmful substances and aiding in the transport of immune cells.”

Component	Function
Lymph Nodes	Filter lymph fluid, trap pathogens
Lymphatic Vessels	Transport lymph fluid
Spleen	Filters blood, stores lymphocytes

Distribution of Lymph Nodes Throughout the Body

Lymph nodes are found all over the body. They are in the neck, armpits, and groin area. These nodes are key for filtering lymph fluid and catching pathogens, stopping infections from spreading.

Knowing where lymph nodes are and what they do is important. Swollen lymph nodes in places like the armpit, neck, or groin can signal a problem.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit: Causes and Significance

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can have many causes. These range from simple to serious health issues. The lymph nodes in the armpit help fight off infections by filtering out harmful substances.

Normal vs. Abnormal Lymph Node Size

Lymph nodes are usually small and not noticeable. They are less than 1 cm in size when normal. But, swollen lymph nodes can grow big and be felt or seen.

Abnormal lymph node size often means there’s an infection or inflammation. It could also signal other health problems.

The size and feel of swollen lymph nodes can tell us what’s causing them. For example, soft and tender nodes might mean an infection. But hard, fixed, or painless nodes could be a sign of something more serious.

Common Benign Causes of Armpit Lymph Node Swelling

Many harmless conditions can make lymph nodes in the armpit swell. These include:

• Infections of the skin or soft tissues of the arm or breast
• Vaccinations, mainly those given in the arm
• Skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis
• Cat-scratch disease, caused by a bacterial infection from a cat scratch
• Trauma or injury to the arm or breast

These causes usually lead to reactive lymphadenopathy. This is when lymph nodes get bigger as they react to an injury or insult.

When to Be Concerned About Armpit Lymphadenopathy

While most swollen lymph nodes are harmless, some cases need attention. Look out for:

• Persistent or growing lymph nodes
• Nodes that are hard, fixed, or painless
• Associated symptoms like fever, night sweats, or weight loss
• A history of cancer or exposure to certain chemicals

If you notice any of these signs, see a doctor right away. They can check and diagnose the issue.

How Lymphoma Affects Lymph Nodes

It’s important to know how lymphoma impacts lymph nodes for diagnosis and treatment. Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the lymphatic system. It can cause lymph nodes to swell, leading to symptoms and complications.

Mechanism of Lymph Node Involvement

Lymphoma starts by affecting lymphocytes in lymph nodes. As it grows, it makes these nodes swell. This swelling happens because cancer cells build up in the nodes.

The way lymph nodes get involved with lymphoma varies by type. For example, Hodgkin lymphoma has Reed-Sternberg cells. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma affects nodes differently, depending on the subtype.

Patterns of Lymph Node Swelling in Different Lymphoma Types

The way lymph nodes swell can hint at the lymphoma type. Hodgkin lymphoma starts with swelling in one group of nodes and then spreads. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma often affects more nodes at once.

Lymphoma can also make nodes swell in unusual places, like the neck or armpit. The swelling might be painless or painful, depending on the situation.

Distinguishing Features from Other Causes

It’s key to tell lymphoma-related swelling from other causes. Infections or autoimmune diseases can also swell lymph nodes. But lymphoma swelling tends to last longer and get worse.

Tests like biopsy and imaging are vital for figuring out swelling. They help find out if it’s lymphoma or something else. This ensures the right treatment is given.

How Leukemia Affects Lymph Nodes

Leukemia’s impact on lymph nodes is key to understanding this blood cancer. It affects lymph nodes in different ways. Leukemia is a cancer that starts in the blood and bone marrow.

Mechanisms of Lymph Node Involvement in Leukemia

Leukemia cells can make lymph nodes swell. They travel through the blood and lymphatic system. This leads to enlarged lymph nodes, known as lymphadenopathy.

The ways leukemia affects lymph nodes include:

• Direct Infiltration: Leukemia cells directly invade the lymph nodes.
• Lymphatic Spread: Leukemia cells spread through the lymphatic vessels to the lymph nodes.

Differences in Presentation from Lymphoma

Lymphoma and leukemia both cause swollen lymph nodes, but they differ. Lymphoma starts in lymph nodes, while leukemia begins in the bone marrow. It then affects lymph nodes.

Lymph node swelling patterns also vary. In leukemia, swelling can spread widely. In lymphoma, it tends to be in specific areas.

Other Symptoms That Accompany Swollen Nodes

Leukemia also brings other symptoms, like:

1. Fatigue and weakness
2. Weight loss
3. Fever and night sweats
4. Pain in the bones or joints

These symptoms depend on the leukemia type and stage. Spotting these signs early is vital for treatment.

Other Symptoms of Lymphoma and Leukemia

It’s important to know the different symptoms of lymphoma and leukemia for early treatment. These cancers can show up in many ways, affecting different parts of the body. Some symptoms are the same for both, while others can help tell them apart.

Systemic Symptoms (B Symptoms)

Systemic symptoms, or B symptoms, are key for both lymphoma and leukemia. They include:

• Unexplained Fever: A fever that keeps coming back without a clear reason.
• Night Sweats: Sweating a lot at night, which can mess up your sleep.
• Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying, often a lot in a short time.

B symptoms show how serious the disease is. They mean the cancer might be more aggressive. This often means doctors need to act quickly and strongly.

The presence of B symptoms in lymphoma patients is associated with a poorer prognosis and requires immediate medical attention.

Organ-Specific Symptoms

Lymphoma and leukemia can affect different organs in the body. This leads to specific symptoms.

Organ/System	Symptoms	Disease Association
Spleen	Enlargement (splenomegaly), discomfort or pain in the left upper abdomen	Common in leukemia, some lymphoma types
Bone Marrow	Anemia, fatigue, infections, bleeding or bruising	Leukemia, advanced lymphoma
Liver	Jaundice, abdominal discomfort	Less common, but can occur in both

Symptoms That Differentiate These Cancers

Even though some symptoms are the same, there are differences. Leukemia often shows symptoms like anemia and infections. Lymphoma, on the other hand, might cause swollen lymph nodes.

A rash can happen in both, but it’s more common in certain types of leukemia or lymphoma that affect the skin.

Knowing these symptoms helps both patients and doctors. It makes it easier to diagnose and treat these cancers.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Other Body Locations

Swollen lymph nodes in different body parts can mean different health problems. These can range from simple infections to serious diseases like lymphoma and leukemia. When lymph nodes swell, it shows the body’s immune system is fighting something.

Neck and Behind the Ear

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck often happen due to infections like strep throat or mononucleosis. Nodes behind the ear can swell because of ear infections or skin issues. It’s vital to watch these nodes because long-term swelling might point to a bigger problem.

Groin and Pelvic Area

Lymph nodes in the groin swell because of infections or injuries in the legs or genital area. Swelling here can also mean sexually transmitted infections or issues with reproductive organs. Swollen lymph nodes in the pelvic area might be linked to gynecological problems or cancers.

Generalized Lymphadenopathy

Generalized lymphadenopathy means lymph nodes swell in many body parts. This can signal systemic infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancers like lymphoma or leukemia. Generalized lymphadenopathy needs a doctor’s check-up to find the cause and right treatment.

Knowing why lymph nodes swell in different places is key for catching health problems early. If you see swollen lymph nodes that don’t go away, see a doctor right away.

When to See a Doctor About Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes can be scary, but knowing when to see a doctor is key. They can be caused by many things, some harmless, others serious.

Warning Signs That Require Medical Attention

Some symptoms with swollen lymph nodes mean you should see a doctor. These include:

• Persistent or severe pain in the swollen area.
• Rapid enlargement of the lymph node.
• Fever or night sweats, signs of infection or lymphoma.
• Weight loss without a clear reason.
• Redness or warmth around the swollen lymph node, a sign of infection.

What to Expect During a Medical Examination

At your doctor’s office, expect a detailed check-up. This includes:

1. A medical history to look for recent infections or health issues.
2. A physical examination to check the swollen nodes and other symptoms.
3. Potential diagnostic tests, like blood tests or imaging, to find the cause.

Your doctor might also do a lymph node biopsy if tests are unclear or if they suspect a serious condition.

Questions Your Doctor May Ask

Your doctor will ask several questions to diagnose your swollen lymph nodes. These include:

• When you first noticed the swelling.
• If you’ve recently been sick or had an infection.
• About any medications you’re currently taking.
• If you’ve traveled recently or been exposed to anyone with a known illness.
• About any other symptoms you’re experiencing, such as fever, weight loss, or fatigue.

Being ready to answer these questions helps your doctor make a correct diagnosis and plan treatment.

Diagnostic Procedures for Blood Cancers

Understanding how blood cancers are diagnosed is key for treatment. Doctors use several steps to find out the type and stage of the disease.

Blood Tests and What They Reveal

Blood tests start the diagnosis of blood cancers. A complete blood count (CBC) checks the levels of blood cells. If these levels are off, it might mean leukemia or lymphoma.

More tests like flow cytometry and molecular tests are used. They help find specific cells and genetic issues linked to blood cancers.

Imaging Studies

Imaging studies are vital for finding and understanding blood cancers. Computed Tomography (CT) scans and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans show how far the disease has spread.

These tests help doctors see swollen lymph nodes and cancer in organs. This is important for knowing the disease’s stage.

Biopsy and Bone Marrow Examination

A biopsy takes tissue or cells for a closer look. For lymphoma, a lymph node biopsy can pinpoint the type.

A bone marrow biopsy and aspiration are key for leukemia. They remove bone marrow to check for cancer cells.

Treatment Approaches for Lymphoma and Leukemia

Lymphoma and leukemia treatment now offers many options. This includes traditional chemotherapy and new targeted therapies. The right treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, and the patient’s health.

Chemotherapy and Radiation

Chemotherapy is key in treating lymphoma and leukemia. It uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be taken orally or given through an IV, based on the treatment plan. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It’s often paired with chemotherapy.

For some lymphomas, radiation therapy can be used alone. This is when the disease is in one area. Combining chemotherapy and radiation can be very effective.

Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapies

Immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer better. Monoclonal antibodies are a type of immunotherapy that targets cancer cells. Targeted therapies, like tyrosine kinase inhibitors, focus on molecules that help cancer grow.

These new treatments have shown great promise. They often have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplantation

Stem cell transplantation replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. It’s a good option for aggressive lymphoma and leukemia. Autologous stem cell transplantation uses the patient’s own stem cells. Allogeneic transplantation uses stem cells from a donor.

The choice between these options depends on the patient’s condition and donor availability.

Emerging Treatments and Clinical Trials

New treatments for lymphoma and leukemia are being tested in clinical trials. CAR-T cell therapy genetically modifies T cells to attack cancer cells.

Joining clinical trials can give patients access to new treatments. It’s a good option for those who haven’t found success with standard treatments.

Risk Factors and Prevention of Blood Cancers

Knowing about risk factors and prevention can help find and treat blood cancers early. This knowledge helps people take care of their health.

Genetic and Environmental Risk Factors

Genetics and the environment both affect blood cancer risk. Genetic risk factors include conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome and ataxia-telangiectasia. These can raise the chance of getting these cancers.

Being around certain chemicals, like benzene and pesticides, also increases risk. Exposure to ionizing radiation is another big risk. This includes radiation therapy or nuclear exposure.

Some infections, like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also raise lymphoma risk. This is true for specific types of lymphoma.

Lifestyle Modifications

Changing your lifestyle can lower blood cancer risk. Eating well, with lots of fruits, veggies, and whole grains, is key. Regular physical activity also boosts your immune system.

Stay away from harmful chemicals and radiation. This means using fewer pesticides, not smoking, and following safety rules at work. Eating foods high in antioxidants might also help lower cancer risk.

Early Detection Strategies

Finding blood cancers early is vital for treatment. Regular doctor visits and knowing symptoms can help. Swollen lymph nodes, constant tiredness, and unexplained weight loss are signs not to ignore.

Swollen lymph nodes can happen after shots like the flu vaccine. While usually okay, seeing a doctor if it’s bad or lasts is important. Staying alert to health issues and talking to a doctor about them can lead to early treatment.

Managing Symptoms of Swollen Lymph Nodes at Home

Swollen lymph nodes can be managed at home with simple methods. These help reduce discomfort. Knowing when and how to use these methods is key.

Appropriate Use of Warm Compresses

Warm compresses are a simple and effective way to reduce swelling and ease pain. Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and apply it to the affected area for 5-10 minutes. Repeat this several times a day as needed.

Benefits of Warm Compresses:

• Increases blood flow to the area
• Reduces swelling and pain
• Promotes relaxation

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief Options

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medications can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Common OTC options include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

Medication	Dose	Frequency
Acetaminophen	325-650 mg	Every 4-6 hours
Ibuprofen	200-400 mg	Every 4-6 hours

Follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider if you have any underlying medical conditions or take other medications.

When Home Remedies Are Not Appropriate

While home remedies can provide relief, it’s important to know when they are not enough. If you experience any of the following, seek medical attention:

• Persistent or increasing swelling
• Severe pain
• Fever or chills
• Redness or warmth around the swollen lymph node

It’s always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with swollen lymph nodes.

Conclusion

It’s important to know about swollen lymph nodes and their link to lymphoma and leukemia. This knowledge helps in early detection and treatment. Swollen lymph nodes can signal many issues, like infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancers.

We’ve looked at the differences between lymphoma and leukemia. We’ve also talked about the lymphatic system’s role and the importance of swollen lymph nodes. Knowing the warning signs is key. Look out for persistent or unexplained swelling, mainly in the armpit, neck, or groin.

Swollen lymph nodes can last for months after COVID-19. While often harmless, seeing a doctor is vital to check for serious conditions like lymphoma or leukemia. Staying informed and watchful is a step towards better health.

FAQ

Reference

1. Paquin, A. R., & Younes, A. (2022). The diagnosis and management of suspected lymphoma in adult patients: Current approaches and future directions. British Journal of Haematology, 197(6), 757–777. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10042228/