Inguinal Lymph Node

Inguinal lymph nodes are small, oval-shaped structures located in your groin, where your thighs meet your belly. “Inguinal” means “in your groin.” Like all lymph nodes, they’re part of your body’s immune system. They help your body fight infections and destroy harmful cells.

What do inguinal lymph nodes do?

Your inguinal lymph nodes drain lymph from your legs, genitals and pelvic area. They help your body fight off infections. As lymph fluid passes through these lymph nodes, immune cells filter out germs, cancer cells and other harmful material.

Where are inguinal lymph nodes located?

Your inguinal lymph nodes are in your groin. Specifically, they’re in the inner upper thigh area. You have two types, superficial and deep:

• Superficial inguinal lymph nodes sit near the surface of your skin, just below your inguinal ligament. The lymph fluid from these nodes drains into your deep inguinal lymph nodes.
• Deep inguinal lymph nodes are deeper within your body. Lymph drains from your deep inguinal nodes into other lymph nodes in your pelvic region.

What do inguinal lymph nodes look like?

Normal inguinal lymph nodes are small, oval-shaped structures. They look a bit like kidney beans. They might become more rounded if you have an infection or another condition affecting your lymph nodes.

How big are inguinal lymph nodes?

A normal inguinal lymph node is about a quarter inch wide. The length is at least two times its width. Providers consider a lymph node enlarged if it’s more than half an inch wide

What causes swollen inguinal lymph nodes?

Swollen inguinal lymph nodes usually mean that your body’s fighting an infection. This could be in your groin area, your legs or even your feet. The nodes might be painful or tender. Infections that might cause your inguinal lymph nodes to swell include:

• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections, like cellulitis
• Fungal infections, like jock itch, yeast infections or, rarely, athlete’s foot
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, chancroid and genital herpes

Can swollen inguinal lymph nodes mean cancer?

Rarely, swollen inguinal lymph nodes are a sign of cancer in your groin area. Cancer cells can travel through lymph into your lymph nodes. Types of cancer that can spread to inguinal lymph nodes include vulvar, penile and anal cancer. Melanoma (skin cancer) and lymphoma (a type of blood cancer) can also cause swollen inguinal lymph nodes.

How do I check my inguinal lymph nodes?

You normally won’t notice your inguinal lymph nodes. They can be hard to feel unless they’re swollen. To check them:

1. Place your first three fingers horizontally along the crease where your thigh meets your pelvis. Press your fingers into the crease with medium pressure. You should feel muscle, bone and fat. If you feel a hard lump, it may be a swollen inguinal lymph node.
2. Place your first three fingers vertically along your upper thigh. Press your fingers into your thigh with medium pressure.
3. Repeat on the opposite side.

Don’t panic if you find a swollen lymph node — they usually aren’t a sign of anything serious. But if they’re swollen for no clear reason, check in with your healthcare provider.