Hi,
According to the picture you sent this would be a submandibular gland. This is probably a
lymph node it occurs in a
lymph node region, however this must be confirmed by your physician.
There are many aspects involved in the assessment of
lymph node enlargement. First, whether this is in fact the only
lymph node that is enlarged. Your doctor needs to check other
lymph node areas to make sure. Also, whether you have any systemic symptoms such as
fever, drenching night sweats or weight loss.
Second, certain aspects such as the size of the
lymph node, whether it's painful, appears inflamed and the site all give clues as to whether the condition is probably benign.
Usually
lymph nodes less than 1cm in diameter are not concerning. Infected
Lymph nodes tend to be firm, tender, enlarged and warm. Inflammation can spread to the overlying skin, causing it to appear reddened.
The submandibular
lymph glands drain the tongue, submaxillary gland, lips and mouth, conjunctivae. Common causes of enlargement include infections of head, neck, sinuses, ears, eyes, scalp, pharynx. They may also be felt in normal individuals, along with axillary and inguinal
lymph glands.
Please have it checked and keep us updated.
Dr. Tamer Fouad, MD
MB, BCh, MSc Internal Medicine.
Consultant of Hematology - Oncology.
