Pediatric head and neck lesions

Commonly encountered head and neck lesions in children are described with an emphasis on evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. Congenital lesions typically require excision, although hemangiomas usually resolve spontaneously. Acute suppurative lymphadenitis is common and readily diagnosed. Chronic lymphardenitis remains a diagnostic challenge and must be differentiated from malignancy. Lesions that do not respond to antibiotics should be biopsied to exclude neoplasms.