This is a quick and painless test that allows us to determine the next step that is needed to care for your pet. One of the first steps is often sampling nodes with a small needle (a fine needle aspirate), which allows us to identify the cell types that are in the lymph node and determine what may be causing them to be enlarged. If you notice a new or unusual swelling in your dog or cat, especially in any of the locations noted in the diagram, please give us a call so we can further evaluate it. Cats with lymphoma may also have enlarged lymph nodes, but less commonly than dogs. Lymphoma, a type of cancer that arises from the immune system, is one of the most common reasons that multiple lymph nodes become enlarged all at once in dogs. Lymph node enlargement can be caused by several things such as infection (from tick-borne diseases or fungal infections), inflammation (skin allergies), or cancer. There are matching lymph nodes on both the left and right sides of the body, so you may feel enlargement on one or both sides. The diagram below outlines the most common locations on the body where enlarged lymph nodes may be felt. However, enlarged or swollen lymph nodes are often easily found, and feel like firm, oval or round swellings under the skin. Symptoms of Lymphoma Enlarged lymph nodes or swelling, especially in the neck, in back of the jaw, and behind the knees Loss of appetite Lethargy Weight. Lymph nodes are not easily found in dogs and cats if they are normal in size. Lymph nodes are a very important part of the immune system and create the cells that help fight infection in the body and produce protection against diseases. These are often mistakenly referred to as glands, and when they become enlarged or firm, referred to as “swollen glands”. DOG LYMPH NODES SKINLymph nodes are small bean-shaped nodules of tissue located under the skin and within body cavities.
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