Inguinal (Groin) Lymph Nodes

Inguinal lymph nodes are more commonly known as groin lymph nodes (glands). The biggest problem with swollen groin lymph nodes is that due to the location, both men and women (especially men) avoid having the lymph nodes checked. For many, the swelling will go away without treatment, but for serious conditions, it is important for prompt medical care. Inguinal lymph nodes are located where the upper leg and the lower pelvic area connect, along the crease. Inguinal lymph nodes can also be known as femoral lymph nodes.

The lymph glands (nodes) are as small as a pea or sometimes as large as a small olive and are bean shaped. Lymphatic fluid is circulated through the body and passes through the hundreds of lymph nodes located throughout the body. The inguinal (groin) lymph nodes filter lymphatic fluid that drains the following:

  • Feet
  • Genitals
  • Groin
  • Legs

The lymphatic (Lymph Node System) removes and filters debris from the body. The infection fighting white blood cells that are located in the lymph nodes are known as lymphocytes. The lymph nodes can become overloaded doing their job, this will cause the lymph glands and lymph gland groups to become enlarged and swollen in the groin area.

Causes of Inguinal (Groin) Lymph Node Swelling

Swelling may be from an injury in the area and the swelling will go down when the injury heals. Localized infection can also cause swelling of the groin lymph glands. When the swelling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should contact a medical health care professional. The following may cause enlarged lymph nodes in the groin:

  • Allergic reaction
  • Cancer (testicular, lymphoma)
  • Drug reaction
  • Benign cyst
  • Hernia
  • Infections in the legs, feet, or pelvic area
  • Fatty growths (Lipomas)
  • STDs (sexually transmitted diseases)

When to See a Doctor for Inguinal (Groin) Lymph Node Swelling

When you have lymph nodes in the groin enlarge for no apparent reason, the node doesn’t return to normal size within two weeks, other symptoms (night sweats, fever, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, etc.) are present, or the lymph node is hard, rubbery, or stationary, you will want o see a doctor. Note when the swelling was first noticed and all other symptoms that are present for an accurate diagnosis. Cancer is not a common cause of swollen lymph glands in the groin, but if cancer is the cause, prompt treatment will increase your chances of survival and for it to be cured.

Treatment for Inguinal (Groin) Lymph Node Swelling

A doctor will examine the swollen nodes in the groin and then with the information you provide determine if further testing is needed. Treatment for the injury, infection, or disease will usually cause the lymph glands to return to normal. Sometimes a biopsy may be done to find out more information about the cause of the swelling and to choose the appropriate treatment.

Most lymph glands in the groin area and other areas will do their job and then return to normal size, which is about the size of a pea. If this doesn’t happen you will want to get a medical examination of the lymph nodes.

Swollen Lymph Node

Learn about Mesenteric Lymph Nodes.