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Mycobacterium abscessus cervical lymphadenitis: an immunocompetent child
Jenn-Tzong Chang1, Yung-Feng Huang, Yen-Ting Lin
1Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences
|August 17, 2006
Summary
Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lymphadenitis is an increasing cause of cervical masses in young children, often mistaken for other conditions. Early suspicion and diagnosis are key, with surgical excision being the preferred treatment for NTM cervical lymphadenitis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) is a recognized cause of cervicofacial lymphadenopathy in children under five.
- Children typically present with painless cervical masses unresponsive to antibiotics, often misdiagnosed as neoplasm or bacterial adenitis.
Observation:
- NTM lymphadenitis presents without systemic symptoms, often with a negative purified protein derivative test and no history of tuberculosis exposure.
- Diagnosis relies on pathogen isolation or pathological confirmation.
- Complete surgical excision is the primary treatment, offering rapid diagnosis and low recurrence rates.
Findings:
- The global incidence of NTM cervical lymphadenitis in children is rising.
- There is a lack of reported cases specifically from Taiwan.
- Complete excision is favored for diagnosis and treatment, minimizing recurrence.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider NTM infection in pediatric cervical lumps, especially when conventional treatments fail.
- Increased awareness and reporting are needed, particularly in regions like Taiwan.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management, ideally complete excision, are crucial for pediatric NTM cervical lymphadenitis.