Lymph Exam: History and Physical Exam 2026

Vocabulary-style flashcards focused on the terminology, definitions, and clinical findings associated with the lymph system physical examination.

Spleen

A lymph organ relevant to inspection and palpation during an exam.

Equipment for Lymph Exam

The tools required include a centimeter ruler, a skin marking pen, and good lighting.

Lymphadenopathy

A term used to describe enlarged lymph nodes.

Lymphadenitis

Enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes, specifically lymphadenopathy caused by an inflammatory process.

Lymphangitis

Inflammation of the lymphatic channels or vessels, which causes streaking.

Lymphedema

A condition involving a broken lymph system that causes tissue swelling, primarily affecting the arms and legs.

Palpation Technique

Use light to deep pressure in a circular motion over the skin to feel nodes move, avoiding a poking motion.

Fluctuant

A character of a lymph node described as squishy and filled with infection or pus.

Fixed Node

A node that is attached to underlying structures and does not move easily under the skin, which is more concerning for malignancy.

Shotty nodes

Nodes that are palpable, mobile, and less than $1\,\text{cm}$ in size; consistent with viral illness.

Malignant Node Characteristics

Nodes that are often hard, fixed, and painless.

Virchow node

A palpable lymph node found on the left supraclavicular chain.

Thymus (Infant)

An organ in infants that is not palpable but can be seen on imaging.

Common Palpable Nodes in Children

Cervical and submandibular nodes are much more common to be palpable in this population.

Axillary Nodes (Palpation)

Palpated as a box with 4 sides, either sitting with the arm relaxed or supine with the arm raised over the head.