Extrapulmonary tuberculosis in patients with cervical lymphadenopathy

Area of Science:

• Medical Research
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Cervical lymphadenopathy is a common clinical presentation.
• Tuberculous lymphadenitis is a significant cause of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of tuberculous lymphadenitis in patients presenting with cervical lymphadenopathy.
• To investigate the association between tuberculous lymphadenitis and body mass index (BMI).

Main Methods:

• A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 101 patients with enlarged cervical lymph nodes.
• Diagnosis of tuberculosis was confirmed via fine needle aspiration and/or open biopsies.
• Data on patient demographics, socioeconomic status, and clinical presentation were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Tuberculous lymphadenitis was diagnosed in 76.24% of patients, making it the most common cause of cervical lymphadenopathy.
• A significant association was found between tuberculous lymphadenitis and low body mass index (p < 0.0001).
• The condition was more prevalent in young females from lower socioeconomic groups.

Conclusions:

• Tuberculous cervical lymphadenopathy is a prevalent condition, particularly affecting young, impoverished females with low BMI.
• A high index of suspicion is essential for timely diagnosis and management.
• This highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis in patients with cervical lymphadenopathy and low BMI.