It is a sign of an underlying medical condition.
Treatment typically involves treating the underlying condition.
This article discusses some of the causes of mediastinal lymphadenopathy and how the underlying conditions are diagnosed and treated.
Verywell / Joshua Seong
They filter toxins andpathogens(infectious organisms).
Mediastinal lymph nodes arelymph nodeslocated in themediastinum.
Conditions that cause inflammation in the chest area can cause enlargement of the lymph nodes of the chest.
Mediastinal lymphadenopathy does not always mean cancer, although cancer is a common cause.
Lymph nodes can also become enlarged due to infections and inflammatory diseases.
This is why the mediastinal lymph nodes can be examined to determine whether cancer is spreading.
The location and number of lymph nodes involved is an important aspect ofcancer staging.
This classification system defines how advanced the cancer is, which helps determine treatment and probable outcome.
Significance in lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of a pop in of white blood cells called lymphocytes.
It can be categorized as either Hodgkin lymphoma or non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
While chest imaging can identify suspicious-looking lymph nodes, a definitive diagnosis can only be made with a biopsy.
Infection
Worldwide, mediastinal lymphadenopathy is primarily associated withtuberculosis (TB).
Other fungal, bacterial, or viral infections can also cause mediastinal lymphadenopathy.
The biopsy results are usually ready in five to seven days.
How Is Mediastinal Lymphadenopathy Treated?
Mediastinal lymphadenopathy may not be treated directly since it is ultimately the result of an underlying disease or infection.
Treating the underlying cause will usually sort out the condition.
Summary
Mediastinal lymphadenopathy is when the lymph nodes in the chest become enlarged.
Mediastinal lymphadenopathy doesn’t usually cause symptoms.
It is typically diagnosed with an imaging test such as a CT scan or an MRI.
If cancer is suspected, your healthcare provider may also order a biopsy.
Enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes are treated by treating the underlying cause.
For some types of cancer, the lymph nodes may be removed surgically.
Iyer H, Anand A, Sryma PB, et al.Mediastinal lymphadenopathy: A practical approach.Expert Rev Respir Med.
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PMID: 34002835
American Lung Association.Learn about sarcoidosis.
2016 Dec;65(12):916-20.
Updated April 18, 2019.
