There are two possible non-cancer reasons that a node can stay enlarged for a long, long time.
- fibrosis (scar tissue) has developed inside
- there is some ongoing infection/inflammation
Each of those is much more likely than any cancer, especially if she had a tooth problem. So yes, she should want to know what the cause is; but no, don't worry about cancer. But if you still really, really want to rule out cancer, then ask for an ultrasound.
Hey, Mel! You got lucky. Yep, the ultrasound tech is not supposed to tell what they see, but you got a kindly one.
When you finally do see the US report (keep a copy always, and the blood test, too) it will say that the nodes are "reactive". That means they are reacting to an infection, and they get big because they're making lots of extra immune cells inside to fight the infection. So then, her blood test will likely say that her lymphocytes are high - those are the immune cells and it's normal for them to go high. It's not leukemia :)
Thanks for letting me know what happened. I'll be here if you have any other questions. I'm happy it turned out well, as expected.
"day care
And there is always some sort sickness there
Maybe this could be a reason too ?"
Yes, it could because that causes the immune system to get all riled up. What she might have is an immune system that over reacts. That also fits with her constant tiredness.
Is there a family history of odd immune system conditions? If not, then this enlarged node could just be a one time thing.
"I am stressing over it"
Yes, I understand. So while there is no reason to think this is cancer, sometimes if the patient herself is really worried some doctors will order the ultrasound. An ultrasound can see inside an enlarged node and verify that it is not-cancer.
I have talked to many people with enlarged nodes, where it turns out to be not-cancer. From all the facts you've provided, this will turn out good for your daughter.
It sounds like the doc is waiting to see if lump goes. If it doesn’t and your daughter has other symptoms, they’ll probably do blood tests to see if infection. If not infection, they will investigate further. You are doing the right thing by keeping up with doc appts