What duration classifies a swollen node as "persistent?" Are swollen nodes ever itchy and can they get red in color? Also, are inguinal nodes located all over the upper thigh or just where the upper thigh meets the abdomen? Thanks for your answers-sorry the question was multi-faceted.

Although there are no hard-and-fast rules in terms of what constitutes a persistent lymph node, I would classify a lymph node as persistent if it hangs arounds for more than about two months. Most lymph nodes which pop up because of a recent infection (e.g. upper respiratory infection) tend to resolve after a month or so.

Swollen nodes can indeed be itchy, though typically they are not. More commonly, they may be painful. When lymph nodes expand rapidly, the capsule in which they are located swells. The swelling of the capsule causes pain.

Inguinal nodes are located in the crease. just where the upper thigh meets the abdomen.