NAVLE Hemic and Lymphatic

Feline Lymphadenopathy Study Guide

March 28, 2026 25 min read 22 views
Lymphadenopathy refers to enlargement of lymph nodes, which can be solitary, regional, or generalized.

Overview and Clinical Importance

Lymphadenopathy refers to enlargement of lymph nodes, which can be solitary, regional, or generalized. In feline patients, lymphadenopathy is an important clinical finding that signals underlying disease processes ranging from reactive hyperplasia to neoplasia. Unlike dogs, where multicentric lymphoma commonly presents with generalized peripheral lymphadenopathy, cats more often develop

alimentary lymphoma affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Understanding the differential diagnoses and diagnostic approach to feline lymphadenopathy is essential for NAVLE success.

High-YieldIn cats, peripheral lymphadenopathy is much more commonly reactive than neoplastic. Always confirm a cytologic diagnosis of lymphoma in a feline peripheral lymph node with a pathologist before initiating treatment.
Lymph Node Location Drainage Area
Mandibular (Submandibular) Ventral to angle of mandible, rostral to mandibular salivary gland Head, oral cavity, nasal passages, skin of face
Superficial Cervical (Prescapular) Cranial to shoulder, under trapezius muscle Neck, forelimb, lateral thorax
Axillary Armpit region, medial to forelimb Ventral thorax, forelimb, mammary tissue
Superficial Inguinal Groin region, medial aspect of hindlimb Caudal abdomen, hindlimb, mammary tissue, perineum
Popliteal Caudal to stifle, in popliteal fossa Distal hindlimb, paw

Feline Lymph Node Anatomy

Palpable Peripheral Lymph Nodes

The following peripheral lymph nodes are routinely palpable in healthy cats and should be evaluated during every physical examination:

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