Clinicopathological Study of Cervical Lymphadenopathy at Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

Background: Cervical lymphadenopathy poses diagnostic challenges due to its varied etiologies, ranging from benign infections to malignancies. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.

Methods: This prospective observational study involved 100 patients at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College & Hospital from June 2023 to October 2024. It focused on elucidating the clinicopathological correlations in cervical lymphadenopathy to enhance diagnostic precision. Comprehensive clinical evaluations were supplemented with advanced diagnostic tools, including ultrasound and biopsies (FNAC and excisional).

Results: The majority of lymph nodes examined were non-tender and firm, with 60% exhibiting hypoechoic ultrasound patterns. Pathological findings indicated non-specific reactive hyperplasia in 40% of cases, granulomatous inflammation in 20%, and malignancies in 18%. Notably, tuberculosis accounted for 80% of the granulomatous cases. A significant correlation was identified between systemic symptoms and the presence of malignant pathology (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The study highlights the critical role of integrating clinical assessments with pathological investigations in diagnosing cervical lymphadenopathy. Such a combined approach is particularly essential in regions with a high prevalence of tuberculosis.

Keywords: cervical lymphadenopathy, diagnostic accuracy, tuberculosis, malignancy