My husband is a 5 yr cancer survivor (35 yrs. old, 58, 320 lbs, very active, farmer), Hodgkins Lymphoma. routine check up in December = scans normal - released to go one year til check up with blood work only. This weekend we found we are concerned with puffiness around lumphnode that was biopsied (right side neck, above collar bone) also where his port was - right side, very sore in that area. we have a sched. appt. with oncologist because of concern, is this something that can occur??
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Puffiness in the neck area around the biopsy region might indicate either an inflammation of the lymph node and biopsy area or thrombosis in the internal jugular vein. It is a concern and might require an ER visit. They will do a Doppler ultrasound scan and if it is a thrombosis then it must be treated immediately with blood thinners and the clot must be prevented from entering the superior vent cave which transmits blood from the upper part of the body to the heart. The chemo port area should also be examined. Any infection that is detected is to be treated with antibiotics. Pain relievers might be given if he is in severe pain. Please do not worry.