Understanding Painless Enlarged Lymph Nodes in the Neck
Recently, I discovered a lump on the left side of my neck that is painless. I learned that this area is referred to as the level II lymph node. After consulting with a physician and undergoing a non-fasting complete blood count, the results came back normal. However, the ultrasound indicated that lymph nodes were present. Here are the details: 1. **Left Level II Lymph Node**: Dimensions are 2.7 cm x 1.4 cm x 0.9 cm, with a volume of 1.8 mL. It appears enlarged and shows increased vascular flow at its center, along with irregular cortical widening. The cortex measures up to 4.5 mm at its widest. 2. **Right Level II Lymph Node**: Measures 1.6 cm x 1.5 cm x 0.6 cm, with a volume of less than 1 mL. This side is included for comparison. **SUMMARY**: There is an enlarged left level II lymph node noted, characterized by heightened vascular flow and unusual cortical expansion. Could someone explain what these ultrasound findings imply? Is a biopsy necessary in this case? Thank you!
Answers (1)
8/7/2025, 4:20:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
Your findings indicate an enlarged lymph node on the left side of your neck with some concerning characteristics, particularly increased vascular flow and irregular cortical widening, which could suggest an underlying condition requiring further investigation.
Explanation: Lymph nodes are part of the body's immune system, and they can enlarge due to various reasons, such as infections, immune responses, or malignancies. Normal blood tests are a good sign, but the characteristics you've described in the ultrasound—that is, the irregularity in the lymph node's structure and increased blood flow—are not typical for a benign (harmless) lymph node. These features could raise suspicion for conditions, including infections or more serious concerns like lymphoma.
Next Steps:
- Follow Up with Your Physician: Discuss the ultrasound findings with your healthcare provider to interpret these results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
- Consider a Biopsy: A biopsy may be warranted to obtain a definitive diagnosis, especially since the ultrasound suggests some abnormalities.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes, such as pain, size of the lymph node, fever, or new symptoms, and report these to your physician.
- Stay Informed: Learn about lymph nodes and possible causes of enlargement to better understand what your doctor may be suggesting.
It's normal to feel concerned about these findings; having an open discussion with your doctor can help clarify the situation and guide your next steps.
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# 7-Month-Old Child with Abernethy Malformation - Exploring Treatment Options ## [7-Month-Old] Identified with Abernethy Malformation (Congenital Portosystemic Shunt) - Treatment Methods? **Age:** 7 months **Gender:** Female **Height:** Age-appropriate **Weight:** Currently 9 kg, was 2.8 kg at birth **Ethnicity:** Asian **Duration of Symptoms:** Present since birth **Location:** Uzbekistan **Pre-existing Health Issues:** Abernethy malformation (congenital portosystemic shunt), liver hemangiomas, chronic jaundice, anemia **Current Treatments:** Supportive management --- ## INITIAL PRESENTATION (June 2025 - July 2025) Our daughter arrived on **June 27, 2025**, presenting with: - Birth weight: **2.8 kg** - Marked jaundice (yellowing of skin and sclera) - Pale or clay-colored stools - **Bilirubin level: 245 μmol/L** (typically <20) An immediate ultrasound indicated multiple liver anomalies, initially thought to be hemangiomas. --- ## FIRST COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT (August 1, 2025 - 1 Month Old) ### Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT) with 3-Phase Contrast (August 1, 2025): **RESULTS:** - 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Cons: Surgical scar, longer recovery time (7-14 days in hospital) - Duration: 2-4 hours ### Option 3: **Liver Transplantation** - We have been advised this is not necessary as the portal vein is functional and liver health is improving. --- ## SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER: 1. **With a functional portal vein (6.1 mm) and improving liver function (ALT normalized), is it advisable to pursue endovascular closure as the preferred treatment?** 2. **Despite ALT levels improving, the bilirubin remains consistently high (242). 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Are there concerns regarding the shunt size (9.9 mm)?** 7. **The measurement of the portal vein has shown improvement from 6.1 mm to 3.9 mm; should this be perceived as a positive sign or a reason for concern?** 8. **Are there special directives (diet modifications, medications) we should consider while awaiting the procedure?** 9. **Post-procedure, how long should we expect it might take for:** - Normalization of bilirubin levels? - Return of stool color to normal? - Resolution of jaundice? - Regression of hemangiomas? 10. **Can you recommend any specialized centers for pediatric Abernethy malformation treatments? We are located in Uzbekistan but are prepared to travel (to Turkey, Russia, South Korea, etc.)** --- ## ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - No family history of hepatic diseases - Pregnancy and delivery were normal - No additional congenital defects identified - Immunizations up to date - No history of bleeding disorders - No signs indicative of encephalopathy - Child is alert and engaged --- **I can supply actual MSCT images and comprehensive lab reports if they would be of assistance.** We sincerely appreciate any insights you can provide. We are striving to make the most informed decision regarding our daughter’s care and highly value expert medical opinions. **TL;DR:** 7-month-old diagnosed with Abernethy Type 2 malformation (9.9 mm portocaval shunt, patent portal vein). Liver functionality is improving (normalized ALT) while bilirubin remains elevated (242). Evaluating options between endovascular coil embolization and open surgery. Seeking expert advice on optimal treatment strategy and timing.