Lump on the child's ear

If a child has a lump near his ear, it is likely a symptom of lymphadenitis. If lymphadenitis is acute, it needs to be treated promptly, otherwise it may have a great impact on the child's health. However, if it is chronic lymphadenitis, no special treatment is required. Below, I will introduce you to the relevant knowledge about lymphadenitis!

1. Overview

Lymphadenitis is a nonspecific inflammation caused by acute or chronic inflammation of the drainage area of ​​the lymph nodes. For example, infection of the upper limbs, breasts, chest wall, back and abdominal wall above the navel causes axillary lymphadenitis; infection of the lower limbs, abdominal wall below the navel, perineum and buttocks can cause inguinal lymphadenitis; infection of the head, face, mouth, neck and shoulders causes submandibular and cervical lymphadenitis. Depending on the onset and duration of the disease, lymphadenitis can be divided into acute and chronic lymphadenitis.

2. Causes

Lymphadenitis is a nonspecific inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by pathogenic bacteria invading from damaged or ruptured skin or mucous membranes, or from other infectious lesions such as boils and tinea pedis, entering the lymphatic vessels through the lymphatic spaces of the tissues, and then affecting the associated lymph nodes. The pathogens are often Staphylococcus aureus and hemolytic Streptococci.

3. Clinical manifestations

Acute lymphadenitis has the characteristics of acute inflammation such as local redness, swelling, heat and pain. It has an acute onset and is often accompanied by fever. The swollen lymph nodes are soft and tender, with a smooth surface and no adhesion. The swelling stops when it reaches a certain extent. The redness and swelling can subside after timely anti-infection treatment. When the condition worsens, it may also develop into an abscess, accompanied by systemic infection symptoms.

Chronic lymphadenitis has a long course, mild symptoms, hard and movable lymph nodes, and no obvious tenderness. Eventually the lymph nodes may shrink or disappear.

IV. Treatment

Acute lymphadenitis: mainly timely treatment of the primary lesion; application of antibiotics; rest; incision and drainage when local abscess forms.

Chronic lymphadenitis usually requires no specific treatment.

5. Prevention

Exercise to enhance immunity; for those with primary infectious lesions, such as skin and mucous membrane wounds, tonsillitis, dental caries, tinea pedis infection, etc., the primary lesions should be treated in time.