AEMCA Practice Exam

What can cause the enlargement of lymph nodes?

1. Increased fat deposits

2. Infection or inflammation

3. Exposure to radiation

4. Aging

The correct answer is: Infection or inflammation

The enlargement of lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenopathy, is primarily caused by infection or inflammation. When the body encounters pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, the immune response is activated, leading to an increase in immune cell production. Lymph nodes act as filters for the lymphatic system, housing lymphocytes that help to fight off infections. As these immune cells proliferate to combat the invading pathogens, the lymph nodes swell in size due to the increased activity and accumulation of immune cells, making this option the most accurate in explaining the cause of lymph node enlargement. While other factors can affect lymph nodes, they do not cause enlargement in the same direct manner. Increased fat deposits could affect overall health but are not a specific cause of lymph node enlargement. Exposure to radiation might lead to lymph node changes over time but is not a typical or immediate cause of enlargement. Aging can result in various physiological changes but does not specifically lead to swollen lymph nodes directly related to immune response.