Colitis and palpable supraclavicular lymph nodes

[CathieRH]

I was recently diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and was wondering if there is any relationship between the colitis and palpable supraclavicular lymph nodes on my left side. The lymph nodes suddenly became palpable in March. Later that month I started having night sweats. In May I started losing weight and having left abdominal pain and left flank pain. By July the pain had become constant and I began noticing blood in my stool followed by frequent bowel movements of small quantities, and always feeling like I had to go. After my colonoscopy it was determined that I had colitis. In addition, I've already had tons of tests done to rule out lymphoma and other cancers prior to the gastro-related tests (endoscopy, CT Scan). Could the lymph nodes be related to some other infection that we're just missing? The lymph nodes have pretty much stayed the same size since becoming palpable. It started with one node and then 3 others appeared right after. They're not tender, they're not fixed or rubbery...but they're not palpable on the right and they weren't palapable prior to this. Thoughts?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Rarely, stomach or esophageal cancer can lead to supraclavicular lymph nodes.  Other cancer like lung or breast cancer can lead to this as well.  

I am not aware of ulcerative colitis specifically leading to this finding.  If there is concern about cancer, a PET scan can be considered.

Biopsy of the lymph nodes also can be helpful in the diagnosis.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

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.
kevinmd_

[1beat2many]

i am being checked for colitis by colonoscopy soon. i was wondering what your symptoms were before your diagnosis?
maryann