Lymph nodes are an integral part of the immune system in both your pup and in humans. Lymph nodes act as filters for the blood, as well as white blood cell repositories. Since they are the main line of protection against infection and disease, any lymphadenitis or swelling is a sign that the pups immune system is under attack.
Now what the attacker is will be found out through an aspiration of the fluid contained in that node. A cytological exam will determine what the next course of action will be.
Giving antibiotics without first diagnosing the disease could cause more complications. I believe your vet is spot on doing the cytological/microscopic slides first.
That way he can then determine the best course of action regarding what is causing the swelling.
Hope this helps, I will be keeping my fingers crossed...please keep us updated as to what they find. |