Pattern of tuberculosis lymphadenitis diagnosed by fine needle aspiration cytology in Gondar University Hospital

Abstract

<h3>Introduction</h3> Tuberculosis lymphadenitis is the most common extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) provides a cheap and rapid diagnostic means in resource poor setting. <h3>Objectives</h3> The purpose of this study is to assess the pattern of tuberculosis lymphadenitis in Gondar university hospital. Prevalence, age, sex and site distribution is determined in this study. <h3>Method</h3> This is a retrospective descriptive study conducted by reviewing FNAC record done in one year in Gondar university hospital. <h3>Result</h3> There was a total of 1884 patients on whom FNAC was done in the pathology department over period of one year. Of these, 600 (32%) were LN aspirates. Of these 600 cases, 321 (53%) showed cytological features of tuberculosis lymphadenitis. Females accounted for 55% of patients with the diagnosis of tuberculosis lymphadenitis. Patients' ages ranged from 3 to 78 years. The most commonly involved lymph nodes were the cervical group of lymph nodes (46%). Two were from intra-abdominal lymph nodes. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Prevalence of tuberculosis lymphadenitis is high in Gondar. Immediate public health measures to treat, prevent and control this disease should be put in action as soon as possible.