Thoracic lymphadenopathy in HIV patients: spectrum of disease and differential diagnosis

J E Fishman1, M Sagar

  • 1Department of Radiology, University of Miami School of Medicine, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Florida, USA. jfishman@mednet.med.miami.edu

To evaluate the etiology and differential features of intrathoracic lymphadenopathy (LAD) in HIV patients, chest computed tomography (CT) records from an 18-month period were reviewed to identify all HIV-positive patients with intrathoracic LAD (nodal size > or = 1 cm). Medical records were reviewed for the documentation of specific diseases causing LAD and the CD4 count at the time of imaging. Of 45 HIV-positive patients with LAD, 40 had specific diagnoses including 22 (55%) infections and 17 (43%) tumors; one patient had both (3%). Mycobacterial disease accounted for 78% of infections; five cases were secondary to bacterial pneumonia and sepsis. Of tumors, lymphoma (7 cases, 39%) was most common, followed by lung cancer, germ cell tumors, and Kaposi's sarcoma. Mean CD4 cell count in patients with tumors was much higher than in patients with infections (314 vs. 62, p < .01). Patients with tumors were somewhat more likely than patients with infections to demonstrate axillary adenopathy (29 vs. 5%, p = .068). Cavitary disease was only observed in patients with infections (27%, p < .03). CT and clinical findings may help direct the differential diagnosis of LAD in AIDS, and promote expedient definitive diagnosis and therapy.

Related Concept Videos

Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport01:16

Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport

Lymphatic vessels, known as lymphatics, are crucial in transporting lymph from peripheral tissues to our venous system. This process begins with lymph entering through tiny capillaries that branch through tissues. These capillaries have unique features such as larger diameters, thinner walls, and a distinctive one-way valve system formed by overlapping endothelial cells.
This one-way system allows fluids, solutes, and even pathogens to enter but prevents their return to the intercellular spaces.
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I01:29

Pulmonary Tuberculosis I

Tuberculosis, often called TB, is a contagious illness primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mainly affects the lung parenchyma but can also impact other body parts.
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II01:28

Pulmonary Tuberculosis II

Tuberculosis, or TB, is a bacterial infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While its primary impact is on the lungs, leading to pulmonary tuberculosis, it can also affect various other organs, a condition referred to as extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III01:31

Pulmonary Tuberculosis III

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infection primarily affecting the lung parenchyma but which can also affect other body parts. TB can be classified based on disease development, presentation, and the affected anatomical site.
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV01:26

Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV

Tuberculosis, more commonly referred to as TB, is an infectious disease stemming from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it primarily impacts the lungs, TB can also affect other body areas. Given its severity and global impact, timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for controlling its spread and improving patient outcomes.
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies01:27

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies

Assessing and diagnosing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) involves a detailed approach that includes a comprehensive review of medical history, physical examination, and a variety of diagnostic tests. This thorough evaluation is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and guide effective management strategies.
Medical History