Lymph Node Pathology in Infectious Diseases

Lymphadenopathy is commonly associated with numerous infectious diseases. The evaluation of lymphadenopathy may reveal local (regional) node involvement or diffuse (generalized) node involvement. Additional assessment factors used to evaluate the lymphadenopathy include the anatomic location, node characteristics, associated symptoms, medical and social history, and comprehensive physical examination fundings. Infectious diseases that cause generalized lymphadenopathy include mononucleosis, toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, brucellosis, HIV disease, secondary syphilis, and tuberculosis.