Who is prone to developing lymph node tuberculosis?

Dec 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Lymph node tuberculosis commonly affects individuals with low immunity, malnourished populations, chronic disease patients, those with a history of tuberculosis, and people in close contact with tuberculosis patients. When immune system function is impaired, such as in HIV-infected individuals or those who have long-term used immunosuppressive agents, the ability to clear Mycobacterium tuberculosis decreases, making them more likely to develop lymph node tuberculosis after infection.

Lymph node tuberculosis commonly affects individuals with low immunity, malnourished individuals, patients with chronic diseases, those with a history of tuberculosis, and people in close contact with tuberculosis patients. The details are as follows:

1. Individuals with weakened immunity: Those with impaired immune system function, such as HIV-infected individuals or long-term users of immunosuppressive agents, have reduced ability to clear Mycobacterium tuberculosis, making them more susceptible to developing lymph node tuberculosis after infection.

2. Malnourished individuals: Deficiencies in nutrients such as proteins and vitamins impair normal immune function, reduce the body's resistance, and create favorable conditions for Mycobacterium tuberculosis to grow and multiply within lymph nodes.

3. Patients with chronic diseases: Individuals with conditions such as diabetes or chronic kidney disease often suffer from metabolic abnormalities and compromised immune function, increasing their risk of developing lymph node tuberculosis upon infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

4. Individuals with a history of tuberculosis: Even after recovery from tuberculosis, residual tuberculosis bacteria may remain dormant in the body. When immunity declines, these bacteria can reactivate, leading to lymph node tuberculosis.

5. Individuals in close contact with tuberculosis patients: Close and prolonged exposure to tuberculosis patients, especially in environments contaminated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, significantly increases the risk of infection.

To prevent lymph node tuberculosis, it is important to maintain a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein and fresh fruits and vegetables, engage in moderate physical activity to strengthen immunity, ensure living spaces are well-ventilated and dry, and minimize close contact with tuberculosis patients. If unexplained swelling of lymph nodes occurs, prompt medical evaluation and diagnostic testing are recommended.