Neck node in adult: a dignostic dilemma

Abstract

<p>A tender neck mass in adults is a common disease and can be a diagnostic challenge because of its varied presentations, that can range from reactive lymphadenopathy to malignancy. We would like to describe a case report of young male with an enlarged tender neck swelling of short duration. The diagnostic imaging findings mimicked that of scrofula, which prompted a complete workup. Since the other investigations could not prompt to a specific diagnosis, an excision biopsy was performed. The histopathology report showed reactive lymphadenitis and the patient symptomatically improved with broad spectrum antibiotics. We would like to conclude that reactive lymphadenitis can mimic many features of other important differential diagnosis of neck masses. Hence a clinician should have a wide array of suspicion before coming to the definitive diagnosis and management. </p>