Have a 4mm swollen lymph node on left side of neck. what does the cortex may be mildly thickened suggesting reactive process mean? i haven't been sick?

The issue is whether this enlarged lymph node is malignant or inflammatory only. I like to sit down with the interpreting radiologist & ask his/her opinion about whether there is enough suspicion to recommend a biopsy or not. A thickened cortex is mentioned as a possible sign of malignancy. You could also consult a head and neck surgeon for evaluation of the lymph node for peace of mind.

The lymph node is small and has feature of a reactive lymph node. A reactive lymph node is usually detected when you body fights a viral or bacterial infection or even an allergic reaction although you are asymptomatic.