Korean J Med.  2015 Mar;88(3):262-266. 10.3904/kjm.2015.88.3.262.

Tuberculous Lymphadenopathy

• Park SW

• KMID: 2082584
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjm.2015.88.3.262

Abstract

Cervical tuberculous lymphadenopathy is a common form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Fine-needle aspiration is the first step in lymph node evaluation; excisional biopsy is an alternative tool. TB culture and drug sensitivity testing must feature in any initial evaluation. A 6-month short course of a four-drug combination of anti-TB medications is standard. Paradoxical aggravation of lymphadenopathy during and after treatment poses a diagnostic challenge. Although the condition usually resolves spontaneously, microbiological considerations are appropriate and an alternative diagnosis should be contemplated.

Keyword

Tuberculosis; Lymphadenopathy; Fine-needle aspiration; Diagnosis

MeSH Terms

Biopsy
Biopsy, Fine-Needle
Diagnosis
Lymph Nodes
Lymphatic Diseases*
Tuberculosis