Benign lymph nodes spreading all test keep coming back 'normal'

[ziggysmom]

about 10weeks ago i was rear ended by a 18 wheeler while stopped at a light. about 2-3 weeks ago a swollen lymph node came up under my left ear, then spread like a string of pearls down my neck into my clavicle and then to my groin and other side of my neck. the doctors and labs and biopsies are reporting benign and normal on blood work and no one can say what it could be besides an "anomally" any suggestions? there is no pain assciated however the one that started it has grown to golf ball size and my blood work shows NO INFECTION and NO CANCER. What should I do? The doctor says dont worry if it isnt cancer and it isnt infection.....but it isn't helping me resolve my "fears" of just "what" it is. thanks! ziggysmom

[pandora9049]

Hi,
   Wouldn't HIV or cancer show up in a lymph node biopsy?

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-PW]

I cannot think of any relationship between being rear ended and enlarged lymph nodes.

This is a neurology/neurosurgery posting site so this area is not my area of expertise. Widespread lymphadenopathy should be evaluated by an infectious disease or cancer specialist. In particular HIV or lymphoma needs to be looked for.

Good luck

[Chrisbo]

Just a thought, but maybe the 'golf ball' size lump you mentioned could be a benign lipoma and not a swollen lymph node.  This can be confirmed by a fine needle aspiration.