Does chronic lymphocytic leukaemia cause swollen lymph nodes?

Lymph nodes filter fluid and help coordinate immune responses. In chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, abnormal lymphocytes can collect in these nodes, causing a swelling that may be felt in the neck, armpit, or groin. The swelling may be painless and can occur with tiredness, fever, night sweats, or repeated infections.

Viral or bacterial infections and inflammatory conditions can also enlarge lymph nodes. A clinician checks the location, size, tenderness, texture, duration, and changes over time, alongside the rest of your health history. Blood tests or imaging may be considered when the examination calls for them.

Arrange a medical appointment for a node that persists, grows, feels hard or fixed, or appears without a recent illness. Note when you first noticed it and whether several areas are affected. Avoid repeatedly pressing the area, which can make it sore and harder to judge changes.

Seek urgent help if swelling causes difficulty breathing or swallowing, or if it is accompanied by severe illness, confusion, or a rapidly worsening infection. Prompt assessment is also sensible when enlarged nodes occur with unusual bruising, marked weakness, or persistent fever.

Ask what features of the node matter, whether blood tests or imaging are needed, how to monitor it, and which changes require faster review.