What does lymphadenopathy refer to?

Lymphadenopathy specifically refers to the enlargement of lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in the immune response. When there is an infection, inflammation, or malignancy, lymph nodes may swell as they produce more immune cells to fight off the disease or respond to other bodily changes. This enlargement is what is termed lymphadenopathy.

Understanding that lymphadenopathy indicates a response to a variety of conditions—from infections like the flu or mononucleosis to more serious diseases such as cancer—helps clarify why this definition is pivotal in medical contexts. By recognizing the involvement of lymph nodes in immune responses, one can appreciate how their enlargement signals that the body is reacting to a health issue.