[Current aspects of lymph node tuberculosis of the neck]

In 1994, the incidence of tuberculosis (Tb) in Germany is 16/ 100,000, and the incidence of extrapulmonary Tb is 2,3/100,000. The peripheral lymph nodes represent with 41% the most commonly involved extrapulmonary organ system. At present, cervical lymph node Tb is of clinical relevance on one hand in patients from endemic areas of Tb in the developing countries and on the other hand in immunocompromised patients, particularly in course of HIV infection. Diagnostic methods are discussed with special attention to fine needle biopsy; modalities and indications of imaging methods are described. The microbiological examination allows the definitive diagnostic clarification. Cervical lymph node Tb responds well to antituberculous chemotherapy. Regimens of drug combination and the duration of treatment are discussed; generally chemotherapy should be continued for at least 9 months. Indications to surgical intervention are explained. The different aspects of adenopathies caused by atypical mycobacteria are considered.