Managing cervical lymphadenitis--a total pain in the neck!

Patients presenting with cervical lymphadenitis are a complex and common occurrence in a general pediatric practice. Although Staphylococcus aureus (often methicillin-resistant S. aureus [MRSA]) and Streptococcus pyogenes predominate as causative pathogens, the next most common pathogens, Bartonella, atypical mycobacterium, and mononucleosis, also must be considered early on. The best way to diagnose and manage these cases initially is to proceed methodically, with detailed history and physical examination, initial streptococcal mono rapid tests, serial office visits, and complete blood counts. In nonviral cases, an empiric oral antibiotic trial is usually prescribed as early as possible to cover for MRSA or Bartonella. Very tender or reddened lymph nodes larger than 5 cm that are unresponsive and worsening may likely require inpatient parenteral antibiotics and sometimes surgical removal. The practitioner must also realize that submandibular and supraclavicular node locations are highly suggestive of atypical mycombacterium and cancer, respectively.