Difference between Enlarged lymph nodes and Abscess...

Hi there...I would like to know the difference between enlarged lymph nodes and abscesses...Thanks!!!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Lymph nodes are small (1-2cm) and bean-shaped nodes. When they become enlarged, they can be soft, rubbery and rock hard. An abscess is a collection of pus that has accumulated in a cavity formed by the tissue. It is characterized by a bump having redness, warmth and pain.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Mysterio]

sorry doctor...I have one more qn...Do enlarged lymph nodes contain pus???...do they look like pimples???

Thanks!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Yes it is common to find pus in swollen lymph nodes. But they do not feel like pimples. They are felt under the skin as bumps which are usually more than 1-2 cm in size. I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[Mysterio]

With what you just told me, I will talk abt what I am experiencing...Hope you can help mi out in this...

A reddish bump on the left hand side of my chest...closer to the armpit(axilla). It was about 2cm in size and pus was visible. I squeezed it just like what a person would do to a pimple and it was very painful. The bump subsided after a few days but it was still rock hard for a few days...now, there is a dark scar around that area.

Can you please explain what it actually is and what can cause this???...

Thank you so much for your attention, Doctor...