Name of the Condition

• Acute Lymphadenitis of Upper Limb

Summary

Acute lymphadenitis of the upper limb refers to the sudden inflammation of lymph nodes in the arm. This condition often results from an infection, and it can lead to swollen, tender, and painful lymph nodes.

Causes

• Bacterial infection, particularly from Staphylococcus or Streptococcus species.
• Viral infections such as those caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.
• Fungal infections or other rare pathogens.

Risk Factors

• Recent skin infections or injuries to the upper limb.
• Compromised immune system.
• Poor hand hygiene.
• Exposure to environments with high bacterial loads.

Symptoms

• Swelling and tenderness of lymph nodes in the arm or armpit.
• Redness of the overlying skin.
• Fever and general malaise.
• Pain in the affected region.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess swelling and tenderness.
• Blood tests to identify signs of infection.
• Ultrasound or other imaging to examine lymph node structure.
• Sometimes a biopsy to rule out malignancy.

Treatment Options

• Antibiotics to combat bacterial infection.
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
• Warm compresses to alleviate discomfort.
• Surgical drainage if an abscess forms.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Generally, a good prognosis with treatment, as symptoms often resolve within a few weeks.
• Importance of follow-up appointments to ensure resolution and prevent recurrence.

Complications

• Abscess formation requiring surgical intervention.
• Spreading of infection to surrounding tissues or bloodstream (sepsis).

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining good hygiene, particularly with cuts or wounds.
• Prompt treatment of skin infections.
• Strengthening the immune system through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent swelling or increase in size of lymph nodes.
• High fever or chills accompanying lymph node swelling.
• Severe pain or redness in the area.

Additional Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Lymphadenitis
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Infectious Disease Information: CDC

Tips for Medical Coders

• Verify the specific location and nature (acute) of lymphadenitis before coding.
• Ensure the correct linkage to upper limb as location for precise specification.
• Avoid miscoding as chronic lymphadenitis or in non-specified regions.