Differential Diagnoses of Generalized Lymphadenopathy
Lymphadenopathy is said to be generalized when more than 2 non-contiguous lymph nodes are enlarged. The exact cause of lymphadenopathy could be concluded on the basis of history, systemic review, and examination. Laboratory investigation may aid in diagnosis. The causes of generalized lymphadenopathy are: 1. Infections Systemic viral infections are the most common cause. Infectious mononucleosis, roseola infantum, varicella zoster, adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, and HIV can cause generalized lymphadenopathy. 2. Malignancy In addition to constitutional symptoms, generalized lymphadenopathy is also a common complaint in case of acute leukemias and lymphomas. 3. Storage diseases Lipid storage diseases can cause lymphadenopathy. 4. Drug reactions People taking phenytoin can develop generalized lymphadenopathy few weeks after initiation of the drug. Mephenytoin, isoniazid, allopurinol, phenylbutazone, and pyrimethamine can cause generalized lymphadenopathy. 5. Miscellaneous causes Rare causes of generalized lymphadenopathy are Langerhans cells histiocytosis, EBV, sarcoidosis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and graft vs host disease. Reference: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/956340-clinical#b5 Image via: https://www.hiv.va.gov/provider/image-library/lymphadenopathy.asp?post=1&slide=160
