What Could This Swollen Lymph Node Indicate?
At 22 years old and weighing 134 pounds, I recently discovered a lymph node that has me concerned. It's a small, round, painless bump, approximately the size of a pea, and I can easily move it around. I'm uncertain if this is what’s known as a Virchow node. Interestingly, I had scratched my neck a few hours before noticing this swollen gland, which caused some bleeding and swelling in the area above it. I'm seeking insights into what this lymph node might signify.
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 2:40:29 AM
OpenHealth AI
You're right to pay attention to any swollen lymph nodes, as they can indicate a variety of conditions. In your case, the small, round, painless lump you described is likely a reactive lymph node, especially if it has appeared following an injury like scratching your neck.
Explanation:
Lymph nodes play an essential role in your immune system. They can swell for several reasons, such as infections (bacterial or viral), inflammation, or injuries like scratches. In your situation, the recent scratch and the swollen area could have caused localized inflammation, prompting a nearby lymph node to swell as it works to filter and respond to any potential threat.
A Virchow node specifically refers to a left supraclavicular lymph node that can indicate more severe conditions, often related to abdominal cancers, but your description does not necessarily fit this.
Prioritized Next Steps:
- Monitor the Lymph Node: Keep an eye on it over the next week. Note any changes in size, tenderness, or new symptoms (like fever or weight loss).
- Self-Care: If the area around the scratch is clean and there's no infection (redness, drainage, or increasing pain), continue to keep it clean and avoid further irritation.
- Stay Informed: If the lymph node does not decrease in size after a week, or if you notice new symptoms, consider taking further action.
Should symptoms worsen or persist, seeking medical attention may provide further insights. Remember that while it's good to be cautious, many lymph nodes swell in response to minor issues that resolve on their own.
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