Can enlarged internal lymph nodes affect the kidneys?
Yes, enlarged lymph nodes inside the abdomen can potentially affect the kidneys. When lymph nodes or tumors grow large enough, they can put pressure on nearby structures, including the urinary tract.
This pressure can cause blockages that interfere with normal kidney Show Full Answer
I had an enlarged lymph node pressing on my left ureter. I had a stent for 3 years, which had to be changed out every 3 months. They tried 2 cycles of Bendamustine to see if it could shrink it. Unfortunately, the chemo had no affect on it. Eventually, my kidney became so infected it was no longer viable. I had a nephrostomy tube through my back for 2 weeks, draining the infection, before they could remove it. I was originally diagnosed with NHL in 1998, and my kidney was removed in 2011. I have no limitations, except for certain medications I have to avoid. I have my kidney function tested at least twice a year. I'm considered in stage 2 of chronic kidney disease, but at 68, my kidney function would eventually start dropping as I age anyway. My lifestyle has not been affected by it.