Palpable inguinal nodes

[JenniferB]

Hi, I'm a 33 year old, otherwise healthy, thin, woman.  I discovered 4 palpable nodes in my groin (2 bilaterally) about 6-7 weeks ago after I suspected a yeast infection.  I hesitate to describe them as "enlarged" as the largest one is 1 centimetre.  I had previous enlarged nodes with one other yeast infection, but I don't recall them feel like this (or maybe these are the same ones and they never went away???).  They are painless and the ones on the left are about the size and texture of a baked bean.  The 2 on the right are much smaller (like a baby pea).  The skin moves freely over top of them, but otherwise I am not sure what "fixed" means.  They are somewhat firm, "rubbery" as the doctor described them.  I went to my doctor last week and she felt them, stated she "didn't think they felt like lymphoma" and has sent a referral for a CT scan to see if there are any affected nodes in the abdomen.  She also said the size of them didn't warrant a biopsy.  She said my white blood cell count is normal and I already know that I am iron deficient as a result of a traumatic child birth 6 years ago.  I am very confused by her assessment and extremely worried that it is cancer.  She said inguinal nodes don't swell with yeast infections.  She did not examine any other part of my body, or ask me any other questions!  On one hand she acted liked this was all okay, but on the other hand, she booked me in for a CT scan within the month!  Should I seek a second opinion?  I think I should have a biopsy of the nodes as well as the scan.  The scan may or may not tell us anything and I'll still have these nodes that don't change size.  If it is lymphoma, I'm afraid she is wasting valuable time.  Is there ANY possibility these are normal??  I'm fearing the worst and the waiting is driving me crazy.  Thank you for your answer.

[kittykat000]

I have the same thing that jennifer was talking about. I was worried that it might be a tumor. But after reading that i dont think it is. Im going to the Gyno in a few days to have her look at me. i just hope its nothing major.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The CT scan is a reasonable next step.  Inguinal nodes are most likely due to infection - so I certainly would obtain a urinalysis to evaluate for a UTI or any other GU infection.  

If all of these tests are negative, I would consider further evaluation - which can include a biopsy.  I cannot comment on what you should do since I haven't seen the lesions myself.  If you are not comfortable with the delay, you can certainly obtain another opinion.  However, if the nodes are due to lymphoma, it is unlikely a delay of 1-2 weeks will significantly affect treatment outcomes.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[pandora9049]

Lymph nodes that are over 1 cm. are considered enlarged.  anything 1 cm or under is not enlarged.  Maybe they are just palpable because you are thin.  Also, stop playing with them because that will cause them to enlarge.
BTW, I'm not a doc.
Pan

[JenniferB]

I'm hoping as much!  Thanks for your supportive comment.  It goes a long way.  Have a good day.