10 Esophageal Cancer Symptoms
8. Lymphadenopathy
Lymphadenopathy is a medical term that refers to the swelling of lymph nodes, which are small structures that filter substances from the lymphatic system. They are an important component of our immune system, and, as such, certain immune cells (lymphocytes) complete their maturation process and many other functions within these structures. Importantly, lymphadenopathy is nonspecific. For instance, possible causes of this clinical sign include infections, malignancies, and autoimmune conditions. Hence, pinpointing the cause of lymphadenopathy can be challenging.
In advanced stages of the disease, esophageal cancer can spread to the lymphatic system and cause lymphadenopathies in the neck (laterocervical) and just above the collarbones1Muhammad Masab, M. (2020, October 15). Esophageal Cancer. Retrieved November 18, 2020, from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/277930-overview. This is a sign that cancer has metastasized or that it has spread from a different body part from where it started.
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