Childhood cervical lymphadenitis: A reappraisal

Abstract

Seventy-four children with cervical lymphadenopathy were evaluated between January, 1972 and January, 1973. Lymphadenitis was atributed to Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci in 26 per cent of the patients, to Staphylococcus aureus (mainly penicillin-resistant) in 36 per cent, to both staphylococci and streptococci in three per cent, and to peptostreptococci in five per cent. One patient each had lymphadenitis caused by Mycobacterium scrofulaceum, Francisella tularensis, pseudomonas, and a fastidious gram-negative rod. In 24 per cent of the children no etiologic agent could be identified. The minimal diagnostic evaluation of cervical lymphadenopathy should include intradermal mycobacterial skin tests and bacterial cultures of the throat, impetiginous lesions, and lymph node aspirates. Aspirated material should be cultured aerobically and anaerobically. Seventy-four children with cervical lymphadenopathy were evaluated between January, 1972 and January, 1973. Lymphadenitis was atributed to Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci in 26 per cent of the patients, to Staphylococcus aureus (mainly penicillin-resistant) in 36 per cent, to both staphylococci and streptococci in three per cent, and to peptostreptococci in five per cent. One patient each had lymphadenitis caused by Mycobacterium scrofulaceum, Francisella tularensis, pseudomonas, and a fastidious gram-negative rod. In 24 per cent of the children no etiologic agent could be identified. The minimal diagnostic evaluation of cervical lymphadenopathy should include intradermal mycobacterial skin tests and bacterial cultures of the throat, impetiginous lesions, and lymph node aspirates. Aspirated material should be cultured aerobically and anaerobically.