Physical examination maneuver

Physical Exam

Inguinal Lymph Node Palpation

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Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

With the patient supine, palpate the inguinal lymph nodes directly on skin with the finger pads. Examine the horizontal group just below and parallel to the inguinal ligament from the anterior superior iliac spine to the pubic tubercle. Then, starting just medial to the midpoint between the anterior superior iliac spine and the pubic symphysis, palpate inferiorly for about 5 cm along the medial thigh for the vertical group. Compare both sides and note the size, consistency, tenderness, and mobility of any palpable nodes.

How to Interpret

Showing 2 of 6 findings

Infectious Mononucleosis

Axillary or inguinal lymphadenopathy in an adolescent or young adult
Rule in
Somewhat helpful
Rule out
Minimally helpful
Evidence:Limited

Malignant Lymphadenopathy

Isolated inguinal lymphadenopathy
Rule in
InconclusiveWide CI
Rule out
Not helpfulDerived CI
Evidence:Limited

References

  • Cai X, Ebell MH, Haines L. Accuracy of Signs, Symptoms, and Hematologic Parameters for the Diagnosis of Infectious Mononucleosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Am Board Fam Med. 2021 Nov-Dec;34(6):1141-1156. doi:10.3122/jabfm.2021.06.210217. PMID 34772769. PROSPERO CRD42021246280.
  • Kühnl A, Cunningham D, Hutka M, Peckitt C, Rozati H, Morano F, Chong I, Gillbanks A, Wotherspoon A, Harris M, Murray T, Chau I. Rapid access clinic for unexplained lymphadenopathy and suspected malignancy: prospective analysis of 1000 patients. BMC Hematol. 2018;18:19. doi:10.1186/s12878-018-0109-0. PMID: 30128155. PMC6092787.
  • Vassilakopoulos TP, Pangalis GA. Application of a prediction rule to select which patients presenting with lymphadenopathy should undergo a lymph node biopsy. Medicine (Baltimore). 2000;79(5):338-347. PMID: 11039082.
  • Bickley LS, Szilagyi PG, Hoffman RM, Soriano RP. Bates' Guide to Physical Examination and History Taking. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer; 2021.
  • Swartz MH. Textbook of Physical Diagnosis: History and Examination. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025.

Research last updated September 10, 2026.

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