Description

Enlarged lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) can be a sign of various underlying conditions, ranging from common infections to autoimmune disorders and, in rare cases, cancer. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system, and swelling occurs when they react to inflammation, infection, or abnormal immune activity. This comprehensive blood panel evaluates key biomarkers to help identify the root cause of lymph node enlargement and guide appropriate diagnostic and treatment steps.

Common Causes of Enlarged Lymph Nodes

  • Infections – Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections (e.g., strep throat, mono, HIV)
  • Injury – Localized trauma or skin infections
  • Cancer – Lymphoma, leukemia, or metastasis from other cancers
  • Immune System Disorders – Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis
  • Medication Reactions – Certain drugs may trigger lymphadenopathy

When to Consider This Test

This panel is recommended for individuals experiencing:

  • Persistent or unexplained swollen lymph nodes
  • Fever, night sweats, or weight loss
  • Fatigue, weakness, or recent infections
  • Symptoms of autoimmune or viral illness
  • Evaluation prior to biopsy or imaging studies

Biomarkers Included and Their Relevance

Beta-2 Microglobulin (B2M)

  • What it measures: Protein on the surface of immune and tumor cells
  • Why it matters: Elevated levels may indicate lymphoma, leukemia, or chronic infections; also used to monitor treatment response in cancer.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • What it measures: Red/white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets
  • Why it matters: Detects anemia, infection, or hematologic malignancies like leukemia.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

  • What it measures: Inflammation marker from the liver
  • Why it matters: Elevated levels signal infection, inflammation, or autoimmune disease contributing to lymph node swelling.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

  • What it measures: Antibodies to CMV infection
  • Why it matters: A common viral cause of lymphadenopathy, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)

  • What it measures: Antibodies for mono and chronic EBV
  • Why it matters: EBV is a frequent cause of infectious mononucleosis, which leads to fatigue and swollen lymph nodes.

Hepatic Function Panel (Liver Function Tests)

  • What it measures: AST, ALT, bilirubin, etc.
  • Why it matters: Liver infections or inflammation (e.g., hepatitis) can cause systemic immune responses including lymph node swelling.

Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)

  • What it measures: Indicates active hepatitis B virus in the blood
  • Why it matters: Active hepatitis can cause liver-related lymphadenopathy and immune activation.

Hepatitis C Antibody

  • What it measures: Immune response to hepatitis C
  • Why it matters: Chronic HCV can cause fatigue, liver inflammation, and immune-mediated lymph node swelling.

HIV 1/2 Antigen/Antibody Combo

  • What it measures: Early and chronic HIV infection
  • Why it matters: HIV is a systemic infection that commonly causes generalized lymphadenopathy, especially early in infection.

Fasting Requirement

Not required

Why This Test is Important

This panel helps:

  • Identify or rule out infectious, autoimmune, or malignant causes of swollen lymph nodes
  • Support early detection of serious conditions like lymphoma or HIV
  • Guide further diagnostic steps such as imaging, biopsy, or referral to specialists