Pediatric Cervical Lymphadenitis

Abstract

AbstractEnlargement of the lymph nodes in the head and neck region is a common presenting symptom in the pediatric population as the upper aerodigestive tract is a common source of inoculation of many infectious agents. While infectious processes—both viral and bacterial and both acute and chronic—are the most likely etiology of enlargement of cervical lymph nodes, other potential causes including inflammatory conditions and malignancy should be considered in the evaluation of cervical adenopathy. In this article, the anatomy and physiology as well as pathophysiology of the head and neck lymphatic system will be reviewed as this relates to clinical presentation of cervical lymphadenitis. Also, the myriad causes for cervical adenopathy will be discussed with a comprehensive review of the epidemiology of infectious etiologies. An evidence-based framework for the diagnostic workup and therapeutic interventions available to appropriately manage infectious cervical lymphadenitis will be reviewed, and the complications that can result from failure to adequately diagnose and treat cervical lymphadenitis will be discussed.