Ultrasound lymph nodes neck is used as the main or additional method diagnostics various diseases.

The basis of ultrasound examination is the effect on the body of ultrasound waves, which are absorbed by soft tissues and reflected from them.

The lymph nodes of the neck are located close to the surface of the skin, which allows ultrasound to obtain a complete picture of their condition.

Lymph nodes, despite their small size, play important role in the human body. They are an indicator of the status of all internal organs and life support systems.

The main purpose of the lymph nodes is to pass lymph through themselves - a component of the blood, which, passing through the lymph nodes, enters the soft tissues of all internal organs. When pathogenic viruses and microbes enter the body, they end up in the lymph, which, passing through the lymph nodes, is cleansed.

In fact, the lymph nodes act as a kind of filter. It is for this reason that at the slightest deviation in the functioning of the body, they immediately react, begin to become inflamed, increase in diameter, and change their structure. Ultrasound examination of nodes cervical spine allows you to identify pathologies of the brain, organs of vision and hearing.

The procedure of examining the lymph nodes of the cervical spine itself is not a method for making an accurate diagnosis. But, depending on what changes occur to them, how exactly their structure changes, and how much they increase in diameter, the doctor can make a conclusion in which internal organ the pathological processes occur.

Before prescribing an ultrasound, the doctor palpates the cervical lymph nodes. But this method diagnostics does not provide any information about the state of the body, but only acts as an identifier of obvious changes. Enlargement of lymph nodes occurs long before the manifestation of the main symptoms of the disease, as a result there is a chance to begin treatment early stages development.

Indications for use

The lymph node is a peripheral internal organ that first detects the presence in the body pathogenic microorganisms and foreign cells, immediately reacting to them. Inflammation of the lymph nodes, changes in their diameter, structure and functioning are a symptom of a number of diseases that are still in the early stages of development. Ultrasound is prescribed in case of suspicion of the presence of the following diseases and pathological processes:

• development of neoplasms;
• pharyngitis;
• tonsillitis;
• measles;
• rubella;
• inflammatory processes oral cavity;
• pathologies of the structure of bone tissue of the brain;
• angina;
• tuberculosis, AIDS.

The formation and development of benign or malignant neoplasms can for a long time pass without pronounced clinical picture. But the presence of foreign cells on soft tissues internal organs will immediately affect the condition of the lymph nodes. Therefore, it is so important to monitor their condition and consult a doctor at the slightest change.

But enlarged lymph nodes do not always indicate severe pathologies. Children under 2 years of age may have enlarged lymph nodes due to the eruption of baby teeth.

An ultrasound of the lymph nodes of the neck is prescribed if they are enlarged, in the absence of any other symptoms of disease. In some cases, a person himself can see small tubercles on the neck; sometimes a change in the size of an organ is discovered by chance, during a planned medical examination when the doctor palpates all the lymph nodes.

Ultrasound is prescribed in the presence of symptoms such as pain syndrome in the area where the lymph nodes are located, with a pronounced asymmetry of their location, with compaction. Mandatory testimony The following symptoms to consider for an ultrasound scan of the cervical lymph nodes include: their mobility, the presence of pain when swallowing food, increased body temperature, and frequent headaches.

Ultrasound of the lymph nodes in the neck is performed regularly when diagnosed accurate diagnosis and treatment was prescribed. The purpose of diagnosis is to monitor the effectiveness of prescribed medications.

How is the procedure performed and are there any contraindications?

Ultrasound diagnostic method is one of the most accessible studies. Ultrasound has virtually no contraindications for performing; it can be performed as old man, so small child. None special training not required before the study. Ultrasound of the cervical lymph nodes is performed in the diagnostic room. The patient is positioned lying on the couch.

A special gel is applied to the skin of the neck in the area where the lymph nodes are located, which acts as a conductor for ultrasound waves. By moving the sensor over the skin, the diagnostician sees a display of nodes on the screen. To get the full picture, the patient may be asked to breathe more often or hold his breath for a while, change his body position, or turn his head to the other side.

All data obtained from ultrasound are recorded in a special table. The most significant for diagnosis are: the diameter of the lymph nodes, their structure, degree of homogeneity, echogenicity peripheral organ. The ultrasound diagnostic procedure lasts from 10 minutes to half an hour. The attending physician decrypts the data. Based on the results, the patient is prescribed additional research- cytology, biopsy, blood test.

Ultrasound of the cervical lymph nodes is not recommended for women during pregnancy, as ultrasound puts extra stress. If absolutely necessary, you can conduct an ultrasound examination of the lymph nodes of the cervical spine in pregnant women, but ultrasound is used only low frequencies to protect the fetus.

For patients who have minor cuts and abrasions on the neck, it is better to postpone the ultrasound procedure until full recovery integrity skin. The results of the study, which are carried out on skin with cuts, will not be reliable. Ultrasound diagnostics is not carried out if the patient has syphilis, leprosy, or Koch's bacillus. In this case, other research methods are used to diagnose diseases - magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography(CT).

What does an ultrasound show?

The study of lymphatic formations of the neck helps to identify various diseases and pathological processes in the human body. For the most part, pathologies are associated with inflammatory processes in the tonsils, mucous membranes of the throat, larynx and sinuses.

An increase or change in the structure of the lymph nodes of the neck may indicate diseases of the salivary and thyroid gland. Often, thanks to the timely detection of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, it is possible to identify serious illnesses organs of hearing and vision.

Changes in the structure of peripheral organs in the cervical region are a symptom of many diseases that in the first stages of their development do not have a clear clinical picture - HIV, AIDS, hepatitis, the development of tuberculosis. Ultrasound of the cervical lymph nodes is of greatest value for diagnosing oncological tumors.

During development cancerous tumors Ultrasound examination of the cervical lymph nodes is carried out to identify metastases. If cancer cells are present on the soft tissues of the lymph nodes, which means that metastases have begun to affect neighboring internal organs.

Features of the procedure in children

Ultrasound of cervical lymphatic formations in children is prescribed if the diameter of the node exceeds 1 cm. Enlargement of the peripheral organ is called lymphadenopathy.

This pathology can be a sign not only of severe pathologies, but also occur due to minor inflammatory processes caused by the presence of infectious pathogens in the body, in diseases such as acute respiratory viral infections and acute respiratory infections. In this case, lymphadenopathy is normal physiological process — defensive reaction the body to a cold, which the immune system tries to cope with on its own.

In children who are in the period of growth of baby teeth, the lymph nodes in the neck may be permanently enlarged. This is not a pathology, but normal phenomenon. However, if you have a fever and nasal congestion, in which nodes appear on your neck, you should play it safe and consult a doctor. In children, ultrasound of the cervical lymph nodes can reveal many diseases of the oral cavity and teeth, for example, the presence of extensive caries.

Often, thanks to ultrasound examination lymph nodes of the neck, weakened immune system what causes frequent illnesses. Lymph nodes may become enlarged due to bites from mosquitoes and other insects. In this case, a change in the diameter of the nodes does not indicate pathology, but it is necessary to be examined, since the child may have severe allergic reaction which needs to be stopped.

In some cases, enlarged lymph nodes in a child’s neck are a consequence of age-related changes related to perestroika hormonal system and the formation of immunity.

Click on pictures to enlarge.

Drawing. Outside, the lymph node is covered with a fibrous capsule, from which trabeculae extend. The afferent lymphatic vessels approach from the convex side. Endurant lymphatic vessel, veins and arteries pass through the hilum of the lymph node. Lymph nodes of the cortical layer are located along the periphery, and trabeculae, vascular cords and sinuses of the medulla are located in the center. In the intermediate zone, blood lymphocytes pass into the stroma through the walls of special venules. The zones of the lymph node are populated by strictly defined cells.

Lymph nodes on ultrasound

Lymph nodes are examined with a 7.5-12 MHz linear sensor. For inspection of large conglomerates, a 3-5 MHz convex probe may be useful. Mesenteric lymph nodes Look

A third healthy people There are small lymph nodes, and the length of individual specimens reaches 3.5 cm. The size and shape of the lymph nodes depend on the location, as well as the age and constitution of the patient.

A normal lymph node on ultrasound is a small (less than 1 cm) hypoechoic formation with a hyperechoic scar in the center; bean-shaped or oval; the contour is clear, smooth or wavy. The hypoechoic zone along the periphery is the cortex, the hyperechoic linear structure is vessels, trabeculae, fatty inclusions, and partially the medulla. At the hilum, the hyperechoic triangle “cuts” into the parenchyma; here, with color circulation, vessels can be seen.

Drawing. Ultrasound shows normal lymph nodes in the posterior triangle of the neck in a 9-year-old girl (1), a jugular chain lymph node in elderly woman(2), axillary lymph node (3). In areas limited by fascia, the lymph nodes are more elongated in length than those located in loose tissue.

A cross-section of a muscle or vessel can be mistaken for a lymph node. In the color flow mode it is easy to distinguish a lymph node from a vessel. If the sensor is rotated 90°, then the vessels and muscles are a tubular structure, and the lymph node has an oval shape, regardless of the cut.

Drawing. On ultrasound, hypoechoic round formations similar to lymph nodes (1). The sensor is rotated 90°, showing a hypoechoic oval lymph node on the left (red arrow), and a longitudinal section of the mouse on the right (yellow arrows).

Drawing. Ultrasound shows a hypoechoic lymph node surrounded by three anechoic vessels. The CDC mode confirms our guess.

In the elderly, sclerosis of the lymph nodes often occurs - round or oval formations with a pronounced hyperechoic heterogeneous central part and a thin hypoechoic rim; the capsule of the node can be visible in fragments. Some lymph nodes grow together, forming large ribbon-like formations.

Drawing. A 65-year-old woman with a painless “tumor” in the armpit. Ultrasound reveals a round formation with a clear and even contour, size 20x10x15 mm; hypoechoic rim along the periphery and an expanded hyperechoic central part; with CDK, blood flow is in the hyperechoic zone. Conclusion: Axillary lymph node with fatty infiltration of the medulla and transition zone.

Angioarchitecture of a normal lymph node - a portal artery is distinguished, which passes into a linearly located vessel in the central part. If the vascular bed can be traced to the capsule, and the PSV on the portal vein is above 5 cm/sec, the lymph node is said to have a high degree of activity.

Lymphadenopathy on ultrasound

Lymphadenopathy is an increase in size, as well as a change in the shape of one or a group of lymph nodes. This is a symptom of a variety of viral and bacterial infections, but can also be a sign of a malignant process.

When fighting the infection, the lymph nodes become inflamed. Inflamed lymph nodes rapidly “grow” at the beginning of the disease and quickly “deflate” during recovery. On ultrasound, the lymph node is enlarged due to the cortical and pericortical zone, hypoechoic in the periphery and hyperechoic in the center, oval in shape, clear contour, blood flow only in the hilum or absent. If the inflammation extends into the surrounding tissue (periadenitis), an abscess may form.

Drawing. In children with ultrasound examination, enlarged cervical lymph nodes with preserved architecture - oval in shape, the contour is clear and even, hypoechoic along the periphery with a hyperechoic center. Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy of the cervical lymph nodes.

Drawing. A 6-month-old boy with severe dermatitis. On ultrasound, the cervical (1) and submandibular (2) lymph nodes are enlarged, elongated, hypoechoic along the periphery with hyperechoic linear structure in the center. Please note submandibular lymph node with a wavy outline. Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy of the cervical and submandibular lymph nodes.

Drawing. On ultrasound, the lymph nodes are enlarged, oval in shape, with a clear and even contour, reduced echogenicity, the cortical zone is somewhat expanded, the central scar is clearly visible; the blood flow in the hilum is increased, the vessels are located correctly - they diverge radially, the subcapsular blood flow is not determined. Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy with signs of a high degree of activity.

Drawing. Child with high temperature, sore throat and bilateral “tumor” on the neck, in general analysis blood atypical mononuclear cells 25%. On ultrasound, the anterior and posterior cervical lymph nodes are enlarged ( maximum size 30x15 mm), round in shape, heterogeneous. Please note that the central scar is clearly visible, and the blood flow at the level of the gate is increased. Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy with signs of a high degree of activity. Large groups of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are characteristic of infectious mononucleosis . Considering the course of the disease and the presence of atypical mononuclear cells, it is likely that the child infectious mononucleosis.

Drawing. A woman complains of a “tumor” in her armpit and elbow. A week ago I had an argument with my neighbor’s cat. On ultrasound, the axillary (top) and ulnar (bottom) lymph nodes are enlarged, round in shape, pronounced hyperplasia of the cortical and pericortical zone, the hyperechoic central scar is preserved; the blood flow is noticeably increased, the vessels are located correctly - radially. Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy with signs of a high degree of activity. At cat scratch disease At the site of a bite or scratch, small pustules form and at the same time nearby lymph nodes become inflamed. One or a group of lymph nodes increase in size to 5-10 cm, become painful, and become denser. Self-healing occurs after 2-4 weeks. Sometimes abscesses and fistulas form.

Tuberculosis of lymph nodes on ultrasound

Tuberculosis most often affects the lymph nodes of the neck, axillary and groin area. Typically, tuberculous lymphadenitis develops slowly, the lymph nodes are painless, medium size 3 cm, but sometimes can reach 10 cm. On ultrasound, the affected lymph nodes are enlarged, hypoechoic, with an unclear contour; pronounced periadenitis and fused packets of lymph nodes can often be seen. Tuberculous lymphadenitis is characterized by a heterogeneous echostructure - anechoic cystic cavities and calcifications. As the disease progresses, an abscess and fistulas may form.

Drawing. An ultrasound scan reveals a group of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, irregular shape; echogenicity is reduced, there is no central scar; heterogeneous due to anechoic avascular zones - foci of necrosis; blood flow is increased, the course of blood vessels is irregular, subcapsular blood flow is pronounced. Conclusion According to the results of the biopsy: Tuberculosis of the lymph nodes.

Drawing. Ultrasound shows enlarged lymph nodes, irregular in shape with blurred boundaries; echogenicity is reduced, there is no central scar; heterogeneous due to small cystic cavities and hyperechoic inclusions with an acoustic shadow behind (calcifications). Conclusion According to the results of the biopsy: Damage to the lymph nodes by atypical mycobacteria. Histologically, foci of infection with M. tuberculosis and atypical mycobacteria are often indistinguishable. Classic morphological manifestation in both cases, granuloma with caseous necrosis serves.

"God is in the details"

Calcifications in the lymph nodes are characteristic not only of tuberculosis, but also of metastases papillary carcinoma thyroid gland.

10 signs of a malignant lymph node on ultrasound

1. Large sizes, more than 10 mm;
2. Round shape, long/short size ratio (L/S)<2;
3. Echogenicity is diffusely or locally reduced down to anechoic;
4. Concentric or eccentric expansion of the cortex;
5. The hyperechoic central scar is thinned or absent;
6. Heterogeneous echostructure due to hyperechoic calcifications and/or anechoic zones of necrosis;
7. An uneven and blurred outline when tumor cells grow into the capsule;
8. Often form large conglomerates;
9. Defective blood flow - the vessels are displaced, chaotically organized, the diameter does not decrease towards the capsule, pronounced subcapsular blood flow, avascular zones, etc.;
10. High resistance index (RI >0.8) and pulsation (PI >1.5).

"God is in the details"

When a lymph node grows slowly, is painless, very dense and literally grows into the tissues surrounding it, there is a high probability of a malignant process.

Lymph nodes in the occipital and parotid regions, as a rule, have a round shape. When evaluating knots, rely not only on shape.

With abscess, tuberculosis, actinomycosis, the central hyperechoic scar in the lymph nodes may be absent.

Sometimes completely hyperechoic lymph nodes are encountered, which is characteristic of fatty infiltration, but cancer cannot be ruled out.

Extracapsular tumor growth often leads to the union of several affected lymph nodes into a shapeless conglomerate with the involvement of surrounding tissues.

Drawing. On ultrasound, lymphadenopathy with echo signs of a malignant process: enlarged (28x16 mm) lymph node, round in shape (D/C<2), гипоэхогенный без центрального рубчика; определяется подкапсульный кровоток, диаметр сосудов не уменьшается по направлению к капсуле, RI 0,88.

Drawing. A 63-year-old man discovered a “tumor” on his neck: it is growing slowly without pain or fever. Ultrasound in the area of ​​the sternocleidomastoid muscle reveals a group of sharply hypoechoic lymph nodes without a central scar, size 10-20 mm; some lymph nodes are round; There are lymph nodes with sharply increased blood flow. Conclusion According to the results of the biopsy: Lymphoma.

Drawing. A 32-year-old woman with a “tumor” on her neck. Ultrasound in the left supraclavicular region reveals one large and several small hypoechoic lymph nodes, round in shape, with a thin central hyperechoic scar; the blood flow is noticeably increased, the vessels are located chaotically, the diameter does not decrease towards the capsule, subcapsular blood flow is pronounced. In the left iliac fossa a “sandwich” is visible - a conglomerate of enlarged hypoechoic lymph nodes, between which lie the mesenteric vessels. Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy with echo signs of a malignant process. A biopsy of altered lymph nodes is recommended.

Drawing. A 50-year-old man complains of hoarseness and a “tumor” on the left side of his neck. Ultrasound reveals a round formation on the neck with a large anechoic cavity in the center - a zone of necrosis. CT scan shows a large tumor in the supraglottic region on the left. Conclusion based on the biopsy results: Enlarged lymph node with metastases of squamous cell carcinoma. Central necrosis of the lymph nodes is typical for squamous cell carcinoma.

Drawing. Ultrasound of a lymph node with metastases of papillary thyroid cancer: heterogeneous echostructure - small anechoic cavities and microcalcifications; the central scar is not defined; subcapsular blood flow is visible.

Drawing. Ultrasound shows a group of enlarged round lymph nodes in the neck: hypoechoic, heterogeneous due to small and large anechoic, avascular zones - foci of necrosis. Conclusion according to the results of the biopsy: Lymph nodes with metastases of adenocarcinoma. The primary tumor could not be found.

Drawing. On ultrasound, metastases of lung adenocarcinoma destroyed the normal architecture of the lymph node: heterogeneous due to the alternation of hyper- and hypoechoic areas, the central scar is absent, the shape of the lymph node is uncertain, the contour is unclear, which indicates infiltrative growth into the surrounding tissues.

Drawing. Ultrasound shows lymphoma (1,2) between the angle of the lower jaw and the submandibular salivary gland, as well as a lymph node (3) with metastases.

Lymphogranulomatosis or Hodgkin's lymphoma is a malignant hyperplasia of lymphoid tissue. The tumor develops from a single focus, most often in the cervical, supraclavicular, and mediastinal lymph nodes. Ultrasound shows a pack of enlarged lymph nodes, clearly demarcated, not growing into the capsule and not merging with each other.

Drawing. Massive lymph nodes in the neck were biopsied and turned out to be Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Take care of yourself Your Diagnosticer!

What is an ultrasound of the lymph nodes of the neck, what does this study show and what diseases can be identified with its help? Similar questions can often be found on forums on the Internet, and doctors hear them every day in their offices. Ultrasound examination of the lymph nodes located in the neck is a highly accurate and effective method for determining the condition of the lymph nodes for the purpose of diagnosing diseases, as well as monitoring the dynamics of treatment of ailments, which are accompanied by changes in the relevant organs.

Despite its informative value, ultrasound examination of the cervical lymph nodes is not the main method for diagnosing the underlying disease, but is just part of an additional examination of the patient, allowing one to confirm the working diagnosis. Ultrasound has several advantages, including its availability, painlessness, harmlessness and accuracy.

More accurate in terms of diagnosis is only magnetic resonance imaging - an x-ray technique based on obtaining step-by-step sections of internal organs in order to determine their pathological changes.

What clinical cases are indications for ultrasound of the neck?

Ultrasound of the lymph nodes of the neck is carried out to confirm some diagnoses, which are accompanied by changes in the structural elements of the lymphatic system, assessing their condition and conducting differential diagnosis of various pathological conditions.

The ultrasound method for examining the cervical lymph nodes is most often used in relation to patients with suspected following pathological conditions:

• neoplasms and malignant tumors of the lymphatic system (lymphomas, lymphosarcoma);
• metastasis as a result of the progression of cancerous tumors of the chest, larynx, esophagus, upper respiratory tract, skin, etc.;
• tuberculosis;
• leukemia;
• abscesses and purulent-inflammatory processes in the neck area;
• syphilitic damage to the lymph nodes;
• complicated forms of fungal diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue;
• actinomycosis;
• leprosy;
• infections affecting the oropharynx;
• mononucleosis.

Cervical lymphadenitis or inflammatory processes in the lymph nodes of this area are not always an indication for ultrasound. The study is not recommended for patients in whom the reaction of the lymph nodes is temporary due to GRVI, influenza, and inflammation that is localized in the oropharynx area.

Ultrasound of the lymph nodes of the neck is indicated only in cases where changes in the organs do not regress within 2 months after cure of the underlying disease, the formation of a conglomerate of nodes, their suppuration, or increase in size.

Sometimes this study can be a key point in determining the true nature of the disease, even in cases that are quite difficult to diagnose. Today, ultrasound and MRI of the lymph nodes of the neck are the main methods that allow us to accurately assess the condition of organ structures and determine their pathological changes.

Research methodology and diagnostic value

Ultrasound diagnosis of lymph nodes located in the neck can be applied to almost all patients, regardless of their age and the presence of concomitant diseases. The technique is a study that is absolutely harmless to human health and does not require special preparation for the procedure.

In addition, ultrasound of the cervical lymph nodes is a painless method that is well tolerated by adults and children.

The procedure lasts about 15-30 minutes, during which the diagnostician moves a special sensor over the surface of the neck and evaluates the results of this scan displayed on the monitor. The sensor must first be lubricated with a gel-like substance and pressed firmly against bare skin. The image on the screen appears due to the reflection of sound waves from the lymph node, which allows you to get a clear picture of the organ and evaluate its main parameters.

What does an ultrasound scan of the lymph nodes of the neck show? At the end of the procedure, the doctor gives the patient a special sheet with the results of his examination, which contains information about the size of the lymph nodes, their shape, location, as well as structural features and echogenicity. The diagnostician also takes into account whether each cervical node is paired, whether it is fused with the surrounding tissues, whether it is part of a conglomerate, and the like.

To clarify the diagnosis, a magnetic resonance analysis may be indicated for a sick person, which will confirm changes in the cervical nodes detected during an ultrasound examination.

Currently, ultrasound examination of the lymph nodes of the neck is possible in public medical institutions, as well as in private clinics and diagnostic offices. Naturally, the cost of the examination may vary in different cases, but in general it is quite affordable for the majority of citizens of our country.

At medical centers on this site you can undergo an ultrasound scan of lymph nodes of various locations. Ultrasound examinations are very informative and economical (for example, in comparison with MRI), can be used repeatedly without consequences for the body, and preparation for examinations requires minimal effort.

The cost of ultrasound of lymph nodes of one group is 850 rubles.

During ultrasound, unchanged (normal) lymph nodes of some locations are not visualized, since they do not differ from the surrounding tissues. And if changes have occurred in the lymph nodes, the specialist will determine the main parameters:

• localization (location);
• total number and relationship with each other (soldered or not);
• dimensions;
• outlines, clarity of the contour, structural features and the presence of blood flow in the node;
• mutual connection with nearby organs and tissues and the blood vessel system.

The role of lymph nodes in the human body

A lymph node is a specific natural formation along the path of lymph flow within the tissues of the human body. Its main task is to promote the growth of immune resources, ensuring the return of proteins, salts, metabolites and other elements of the tissue structure with the flow of lymphatic fluid back into the circulatory system, as well as the retention of pathogenic microorganisms and altered cells that have entered the lymphatic system - i.e. they act as filter elements.

The lymphatic system is represented by a branched network of vessels of the same name with small components of soft-elastic consistency along their course - nodules. An increase in the size of the lymph node, detected by ultrasound, depending on the location, indicates a malfunction in the body, and may indicate which organ or system needs additional diagnostic examination. Most often, deviations in the condition of the lymph nodes are not independent diseases, but indicate certain problems that need to be promptly eliminated in other organs and systems.

When should you undergo an ultrasound of the lymph nodes?

This ultrasound must be done in the following cases:

You have discovered enlargement and tenderness of the superficial lymph nodes.

For blood diseases.

There is a suspicion or have already been detected formations in:

• scrotum;
• thyroid gland;
• mammary gland;
• salivary glands;
• liver,
• pancreas,
• kidneys;
• lungs;
• uterus and ovaries;

Ultrasound examination of lymph nodes is also indicated for inflammatory diseases of various locations.

It should be remembered that lymph nodes can be affected by autoimmune and tumor processes in various organs and tissues, so be sure to pay due attention to their examination!

Preparatory measures before ultrasound of lymph nodes

This is one of the easiest studies for the patient, characterized by safety and effectiveness. You don’t need any special preparation for it, it doesn’t matter what type of research you have been assigned.

An exception is the study of the retroperitoneal space (along the abdominal aorta, iliac vessels). In this case, for 2-3 days before the procedure, patients must follow a diet that excludes foods rich in toxins, remove foods that contribute to gas formation in the intestines, and carbonated drinks. On the eve of the procedure, you should have a light dinner (no later than 20 hours). A day before the study, it is advisable to do a cleansing enema. The study can be carried out without an empty stomach, but breakfast should be light.

What does ultrasound of lymph nodes show?

The shape, size, clarity of contours, echogenicity (degree of tissue echo density), internal structure and the possible presence of altered blood flow, the relationship of nodes to surrounding organs and tissues, as well as to each other - these are the factors that will become the area of ​​study for the diagnostician. Deviation from standards is a reason to seek qualified medical care.

If you are worried about the condition of the lymph nodes, notice an increase in their size, pain, then ignoring the problem or self-medicating can have a very negative impact on your health. Remember that diagnostic procedures will help identify not only inflammatory and infectious diseases, but also many autoimmune diseases and tumors.

To exclude or confirm their development, ultrasound of regional lymph nodes responsible for the outflow of lymph from certain organs and systems is usually recommended. For example, ultrasound of the lymph nodes above the collarbone can help in diagnosing diseases of the thyroid and mammary glands, and the esophagus.

Ultrasound of axillary lymph nodes

Such diagnostics are of serious importance for mammology. An increase in nodes accompanies a developing inflammatory or oncological disease.

Ultrasound of inguinal lymph nodes

An increase with a change in the structure of the lymph nodes in the groin areas is observed in inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system, problems with the health of the lower extremities, thrombophlebitis, the presence of infected skin lesions, non-healing ulcers, and erysipelas can be detected.

Where to get an ultrasound of the lymph nodes

You can perform high-precision examinations and receive comprehensive consultations at any of our centers. Choose a location convenient for you and sign up for an ultrasound of the lymph nodes in Moscow (Polezhaevskaya metro station, Varshavskaya metro station, Dynamo metro station), Solntsevo and Novo-Peredelkino by phone numbers listed in the contacts section, or through the online form on the website.

Advantages of ultrasound in our clinics

• Modern ultrasound diagnostic equipment with high-precision sensors.
• Professional diagnostic specialists.
• Maximum accuracy and reliability of research.
• Detailed explanation of the results of the diagnostic procedure to patients.
• Affordable pricing policy.
• Cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Our medical centers have a very affordable price for ultrasound of lymph nodes.

You can sign up for an ultrasound scan of the lymph nodes at the medical centers near Polezhaevskaya metro station, Dynamo metro station (on Khodynskoye Pole), Varshavskaya metro station, as well as in Solntsevo and Novo Peredelkino.

Lymph nodes are an essential component of the hormonal and immune systems. Pathologies of the cervical lymph nodes are quite common. Their inflammation can manifest itself as a complication after dangerous diseases, or simply be a signal for a weakening of the immune system. Each change in the condition of the nodes is only one of the symptoms of some larger disease.

Is ultrasound done on lymph nodes in the neck for adults and children with inflammation? This is the most frequently asked question. There are few ways to monitor these pathological processes, one of them is ultrasound.

The neck allows the attending physician to painlessly, easily, quickly and accurately diagnose and prescribe the correct treatment for the patient.

Having completed this procedure, specialists immediately detect the presence of altered cervical lymph nodes using an ultrasound photo.

This procedure can be prescribed in many cases. They are:

• painful sensations when palpating (feeling) the sides of the neck. To be more precise, the chains of lymph nodes are located behind and in front of the sternocleidomastoid muscle of the cervical spine;
• the appearance of asymmetrical swelling and compaction in the area of ​​the lymph nodes;
• noticeable increase in size of lymph nodes;
• clearly limited redness and increased temperature in the area of ​​the lymph nodes, lasting longer than two hours;
• noticeable discomfort when swallowing pieces of solid food;
• non-special tilted position of the head, forced due to painful sensations;
• mobility of the lymph nodes uncharacteristic of the usual state;
• long-term headaches, weakness, melancholy;
• sleep disturbance, drowsiness or insomnia;
• decreased appetite;
• suspicion of tumor and inflammatory processes in the lymphatic system, abscess, the possibility of the presence of benign or malignant neoplasms in the areas of internal organs, oncological diseases of tissues and organs in the area of ​​the lymph nodes.

It should be pointed out that The healthy size of a lymph node ranges from 0.5 centimeters to 1.5 centimeters.

Attention! If you have any of the above symptoms, you should immediately visit an ultrasound examination of the lymph nodes in the cervical region and consult a specialist!

Groups of lymph nodes in the neck

There are several most important groups of lymph nodes that need special attention. You should consult which lymph nodes are bothering the patient in order to take into account all the features.

There are different types of lymph nodes in the human body:

• anterior and posterior cervical;
• ear and occipital;
• chin and mandibular.

How to prepare for the examination?

There is no need to make any special preparations for the ultrasound procedure of the neck lymph nodes. The patient can undergo the study at any time convenient for him.

The necessary and only important conditions are: patient calm, absence of nervous thoughts and sensations. To do this, the patient must try to avoid unnecessary stress and shock.

If the skin in the area where the ultrasound sensor operates is damaged in some way (redness, sores, peeling), then the examination cannot be carried out.

Young children do not need to take medications or pharmaceuticals the day before the examination (if the attending physician allows this). The last meal before the ultrasound should be taken 6-7 hours before.

How do they do it?

The ultrasound procedure itself lasts a maximum of 15 minutes and proceeds as follows:

1. A special gel is applied to the skin of the patient’s neck.
2. The doctor runs an ultrasound sensor over the prepared area - a device that acts as a manipulator, scans and displays the image on the screen.
3. The remaining gel is washed off the patient, and the results of the procedure are given in writing.

Examination of the lymph nodes in the child’s neck

Cervical lymph nodes in children have their own characteristics. Let's figure out what the study shows.

The normal limit is the size of the node equal to one centimeter. If the lymph node measures 1.5 centimeters, then it is advisable to attend an ultrasound examination. Lymph nodes more than 2 centimeters in diameter require immediate action and prompt treatment to avoid more serious consequences.

If the inflammatory process appears after or during any viral disease, there is no need to worry. In 90% of cases, this phenomenon will go away when the child recovers. But it is still recommended to visit a specialist.

Reference! In young children, the immune system is only at the development stage, therefore, their lymph nodes can become inflamed much more often than in adults.

What an ultrasound shows: decoding

The written results that the patient received after the examination should be transcribed. To do this, the diagnostician sends the patient to a therapist. If necessary, he prescribes further treatment and various pharmaceuticals.

But if the patient has an ultrasound protocol form in his hands, then he can analyze it independently according to certain criteria:

1. If the diameter of the node is increased by 1-2 cm (slightly), the boundaries are as clear and even, and the density of the tissue is reduced - then the patient has non-purulent or serous lymphadenitis.
2. With a significant increase in the width of the node, a decrease in the density of its tissues, blurring of its boundaries and acquiring an uneven shape, purulent lymphadenitis is observed.
3. With a significant increase in the tissue density of the lymph nodes, an increase in their size and maintaining the correct shape, metastatic lesions of the lymph nodes can be diagnosed.

Possible restrictions

This procedure - ultrasound of the cervical spine - has no contraindications. The exception is any individual intolerances, which should be discussed with a specialist.