Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Sarita Shrivastva , Oncologist

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Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia (RLH) is a non-neoplastic enlargement of the lymph nodes as a reaction of the immune system. It predominantly involves the lymphatic system, most frequently affecting lymph nodes and the tonsils, and can progress to a more serious disease, such as lymphoma.

What Are the Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia Symptoms and Warning Signs?

RLH can present with a variety of symptoms, depending on the location and severity of lymph node involvement.

While it often resolves on its own, persistent or concerning symptoms should prompt medical evaluation.

Common Symptoms

• Painless swelling of lymph nodes
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever
• Sore throat
• General malaise

Severe Symptoms

• Rapidly enlarging lymph nodes
• Unexplained weight loss
• Night sweats
• Persistent fever
• Breathing difficulties (if affecting the airway)

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What Are the Different Types of Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia?

Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia can be classified into follicular, paracortical, and sinus hyperplasia, each reflecting immune responses in different regions of lymphoid tissue.

Types of RLH include

• Follicular hyperplasia: Overgrowth of lymphoid follicles, often due to infection or immune stimulation.
• Paracortical hyperplasia: Expansion of the T-cell region, commonly seen with viral infections or drug reactions.
• Sinus histiocytosis: Increase in histiocytes, often linked to draining infections or inflammatory responses.
• Combined patterns: Multiple hyperplastic patterns may appear in response to complex immune stimuli.

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What Are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia?

RLH occurs as a response to immune stimulation from infections, inflammation, or medications. It is not cancer, but it may mimic malignant conditions, requiring thorough evaluation.

Causes

• Viral infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr Virus, HIV)
• Bacterial infections (e.g., streptococcal throat infections)
• Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
• Drug reactions
• Allergic responses

Risk Factors

• Recent infections
• Infection and chronic inflammatory diseases
• Autoimmune disorders
• Use of certain medications
• Weakened immune system

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How is Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia Diagnosed?

Since RLH symptoms can mimic those of more serious diseases like lymphoma, accurate diagnosis is essential.

Medicover Hospitals use advanced diagnostics to differentiate between benign and malignant conditions.

Common Diagnostic Tests

• Physical examination and lymph node palpation
• Blood tests (CBC, ESR, CRP)
• Imaging (Ultrasound, CT, or MRI)
• Lymph node biopsy or fine-needle aspiration
• Immunohistochemistry and molecular studies

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What Are the Treatment Options for Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. Many cases resolve with time or by treating the underlying cause. Persistent or severe cases may require further intervention.

Treatment Methods

• Observation in mild, self-limiting cases
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antivirals (if viral etiology is confirmed)
• Anti-inflammatory or corticosteroid therapy
• Discontinuation of causative medications
• Surgical removal (rarely for diagnostic or symptomatic relief)

Medicover's Approach

Our experts tailor treatment plans to the underlying cause, ensuring patient safety and minimizing unnecessary interventions.

We also provide follow-up care to monitor progress.

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When to See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if lymph node swelling is persistent or accompanied by warning signs. Delayed diagnosis may lead to confusion with malignancies.

Seek prompt care if

• Swelling lasts more than 2-3 weeks
• Nodes are firm, fixed, or rapidly growing
• You experience fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss
• Breathing or swallowing becomes difficult

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What Is the Recovery Process After Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia Treatment?

Recovery depends on the underlying cause and individual response to treatment. Most people recover fully with conservative management.

Post-Treatment Expectations

• Regular follow-ups to monitor node size
• Blood tests to track inflammatory markers
• Lifestyle changes to support immune health
• A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and hydration
• Avoid known triggers (e.g., allergens or specific medications)

Support at Medicover

We offer nutritional counseling, immune support therapies, and regular monitoring to ensure your long-term health and peace of mind.

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What Precautions Can Help Prevent Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia?

Preventing Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia involves maintaining a strong immune system, managing chronic infections promptly, and avoiding prolonged exposure to environmental irritants or allergens.

Prevention Measures

• Good hygiene to prevent infections
• Prompt treatment of infections
• Avoid self-medication and unnecessary drug use
• Regular health check-ups if you have autoimmune diseases

Possible Complications of Untreated

• Misdiagnosis as lymphoma
• Chronic lymph node swelling
• Discomfort or organ compression (in rare cases)

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Our Experience Treating Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia

At Medicover, we treat each RLH case with precision and care. With the latest diagnostic facilities and a team of expert hematologists and pathologists,

we ensure that patients receive timely, accurate diagnoses and individual treatment plans prepared to their specific needs. Our goal is to support your health while minimizing stress and uncertainty.

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