DEAR DR. GOTT: Almost two years ago my husband had a CT of the lungs ordered by his regular physician. His scan showed “multiple lymph nodes” and he was referred to a lung specialist, but he refused to go. He canceled his appointment, and no other follow-up has taken place. My husband is a stubborn man sometimes. What does “multiple lymph nodes” mean?

DEAR READER: Lymph nodes are filters within the lymphatic system. Most people are familiar with having “swollen glands” associated with a sore throat. These are, in fact, lymph nodes responding to an infection. These nodes are located throughout the body in the neck, chest, groin, under the arms and other areas, and can swell in response to bacterial and viral infections, inflammation, certain immune disorders and various forms of cancer.
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