What does lymphadenopathy refer to?

Lymphadenopathy refers to the enlargement of lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the body's lymphatic system. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or malignancies. When lymph nodes become enlarged, they may indicate that the body is responding to an underlying issue, such as an infection or another disease process.

The other options relate to different medical conditions. Swelling of the legs typically indicates issues such as venous insufficiency or edema, which is unrelated to lymphadenopathy. Pain in the neck can occur for various reasons, including muscle strain or cervical spine issues, but it does not specifically define lymphadenopathy. A decrease in lymph fluid is not a recognized clinical condition and does not describe the enlargement of lymph nodes or any aspects of lymphadenopathy.