I have reviewed your previous responses to swollen lymph nodes, but
still have a question.
I have a hard(as a rock) non tender swelling just behind my chin. I have
heard that it is possible for overweight indivduals to develop deposits
of fat in their lymph nodes. Would this build up make the galnd hard or
would it still be soft?
I am also curiuos if this location would be correct for a salivary
stone?
Reply: ------------------------
Fatty change refers to the abnormal accumulation of adipose (fat) within cells. This pathologic phenomena is most commonly seen in the liver, heart, and kidneys. There may be little consequence to this in some cases, however in others it may result in injury to the affected cell (such as the liver in a chronic alcoholic). However, I have not personally seen fatty change in a lymph node resulting in hard lymph node enlargement. If you have had a firm to hard enlarged lymph node for a month or more, you should see your physician.
As to the possibility of a salivary stone, certainly a salivary gland could become enlarged because of blockage of the gland by a small stone - the submaxillary saliva glands are located beneath the jaw on either side of the neck. However, it is doubtful that you would be able to feel the stone in the neck - you might be able to feel a small stone under your tongue inside the mouth.
--
Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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