Causes of Red Blotches and Swollen Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are clusters of cells that are wrapped in connective tissue. Lymph nodes are located in different areas of the body, with each group responsible for a certain area of the body. Lymph nodes are located in the neck, under the chin, in the armpits and in the groin region.
They are important for the functioning of the immune system. Lymph nodes are packed with lymphocytes and macrophages. Lymphocytes produce proteins that act against viruses and bacteria by surrounding them. Macrophages act on the surrounded viruses and break them down into harmless components that are then flushed out of the body.

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpits may signify one of many types of viral, bacterial or parasitical infections. Some of the common infections that result in swollen lymph nodes include:

Bacterial infections
Strep throat
Measles
Mononucleosis
Skin infections such as cellulitis or erysipelas
Common cold
Lipomas
HIV infection
Allergic reactions to some vaccines such as smallpox and typhoid
Breast cancer

Some of the rarer causes of swollen lymph nodes include:

Tuberculosis
Sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis
Toxoplasmosis caused by a parasitical infection
Immune system disorders such as lupus
Lymphomas or cancer of the lymphatic system
Leukemia
Cancers that have spread to the lymphatic system
Side effects of certain medications such as anti-seizure and anti-malarial drugs

The small sores and red blotches on your left breast may be caused by some other underlying condition. However, there are some conditions that have been known to cause swollen lymph nodes as well as red blotches and rashes. For this reason it is important to consult your doctor to find out if the two symptoms are related and what their underlying cause is.

Causes of red blotches and swollen lymph nodes include:

Scarlet Fever: Caused by a streptococcal bacteria
Mononucleosis: Caused by a viral infection
Indoor Allergens: These include allergies to dust, dust mites, mold and pet hair
Lyme Disease: Caused by a bacterial infection, it spreads through tick bites
Shingles: Caused by the herpes zoster 1 virus (HSV1), it can cause painful sores and rashes to erupt on chest and the back

answered by G M

You may have a breast infection, mastitis or cellulitis, and your lymph glands are swollen in a normal reaction to the infection. Seek the advice of a trained health care practitioner who can examine your breasts, for further treatment. Although there are several natural alternatives for treatment, an examination is advisable.

answered by Dr K B N

What is swollen lymph

I have a swollen lymph node under my left arm and 2 small sores with red blotches in a line on my left breast, what could it be?