The evaluation of lymph gland swelling begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in lymph gland swelling may include:

• Lymph node swelling in the armpits
• Axillary lymphadenopathy
• Elbow lymph node swelling
• Groin lymph node swelling
• Inguinal lymphadenopathy
• Lymph node swelling in the neck, over the collarbone
• Cervical lymphadenopathy
• Lymph node swelling in the neck, under the jaw
• Lymph node swelling in the neck, around the ear

Severe infections of the lymphatic system may cause inflammation of the lymph channels under the skin, called lymphangitis. Lymphangitis causes red streaks to form in the skin.

Examples include:

• Lymphangitis in the back of a leg
• Lymphangitis due to an infected arm

Testing may be necessary to determine the cause for lymph gland swelling.

Tests that may be used to evaluate lymph gland swelling include:

• Blood cultures
• Complete blood count
• Lymph node biopsy:
• Open lymph node biopsy
• Needle biopsy of lymph node
• Bone marrow biopsy