Symptom 4: Swollen Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are tiny, bean-shaped structures that play a pivotal role in our immune response. Acting as checkpoints, they filter harmful substances and pathogens, helping the body fend off infections. However, when these nodes swell, it’s the body signaling that something’s amiss.
Enlarged lymph nodes can be felt as tender or firm lumps under the skin, typically in the neck, armpits, or groin. While many conditions, from the common cold to infections, can cause swollen nodes, persistent swelling in transplant recipients requires more in-depth scrutiny.
In the context of PTLD, the swollen nodes aren’t just reacting to external pathogens. Instead, they swell due to an abnormal growth of lymphocytes. This abnormality can be the lymphatic system’s response to the immune changes post-transplant, leading to nodes that are enlarged and often tender.
Lymph node changes can be subtle initially. Regular self-checks can help in spotting these alterations. By gently palpating the areas where lymph nodes are prominent, individuals can be alert to any significant changes in size or tenderness. (4)
