A clinicopathological study of cervical lymphadenopathy – A hospital-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: The enlargement of lymph nodes is an index of spread of infection and malignancy. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) has the ability to provide rapid diagnosis and has good economic saving, reduces patient anxiety, and can be used for patients who have anesthetic risks. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study is to study the various clinical presentations of cervical lymphadenopathy. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted from June 2019 to August 2020 over a period of 14 months. The study consists of 100 consecutive cases, both outpatients and inpatients at the surgical outpatient/wards at Malla Reddy Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad. In all cases, FNAC was done. Excisional biopsy was done in all 100 cases. Results: The incidence of cervical lymphadenopathy was highest in the 12–40 years age group (73%). Males were more affected than females with a male-to-female ratio of 1.22:1. Tuberculosis was the most common etiology accounting for 51%. Posterior group of cervical lymph nodes were the most common to get involved in tuberculosis (31.3%). Sixteen cases out of 51 cases of tubercular lymphadenitis showed constitutional symptoms. The sensitivity of FNAC for tuberculosis – 86%, chronic nonspecific lymphadenitis – 73.3%, malignant secondaries – 87.5%, and lymphomas – 90%. Histopathological examination is the most dependable diagnostic tool. Conclusion: The most common disease affecting lymph nodes is tuberculosis. Dependence on clinical evidence alone would lead to erroneous diagnosis in most of the cases. FNAC is an important frontline investigation. Histopathological examination remains the most dependable diagnostic tool.