Lymph nodes are small glands that filter lymph, the clear fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system. During an infection, they accumulate bacteria or dead or diseased cells and may swell.

Usually, swollen chest lymph nodes are too deep in the chest for a person to feel them. Any swollen lymph nodes in the chest appear on imaging scans. Swelling can indicate an underlying condition.

You’ve probably had swollen glands at some point in your life, such as when you’ve had a cold or other infection. Swollen glands are actually swollen lymph nodes, which are often reactive lymph nodes.

Dipika Kakar, recovering from liver cancer surgery, underwent a mammography test due to persistent shoulder pain and concerns about lymph nodes. Initial diagnoses suggested lymph nodes and muscle ...