Ultrasonographic differentiation between tuberculous lymphadenitis and malignant lymph nodes.

Abstract

To assess the usefulness of ultrasonography in the differential diagnosis of cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis versus malignant lymph nodes. Ultrasonography of cervical lymph nodes was performed with a real-time linear scanner using a 7.5- or 11-MHz probe or both. Ultrasonographic findings were retrospectively reviewed in 73 patients: 49 with malignant lymphoma, 15 with tuberculous lymphadenitis, and 9 with metastatic lymph nodes. Ultrasonographic features specific to cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis were strong echoes (33.3%) and an echogenic thin layer (86.7%). When the lymph nodes had at least 1 of these 2 features, tuberculous lymphadenitis was diagnosed with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 100%. Ultrasonographic evaluation of cervical lymph nodes can be useful in the diagnosis of cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis.