Swollen lymph nodes can sometimes accompany rheumatoid arthritis (RA), particularly when inflammation is high. These small, bean-shaped glands are part of the immune system and work to filter harmful substances. When RA is active, the immune system is overstimulated, which can cause lymph nodes near inflamed joints to enlarge.

“It's possible for active RA inflammation to include the lymph nodes,” said Charis Meng, MD, rheumatologist at HSS. Research suggests lymph node swelling is common in RA, though it typically improves with effective treatment. Persistent swelling may warrant further evaluation, as RA is associated with a slightly increased risk of lymphoma.

Read the full article at healthcentral.com.