title: Pediatric cervical lymphadenopathy.
abstract: This article provides an overview for evaluation and management of the pediatric patient with cervical lymphadenopathy. A thorough history and physical examination are crucial in developing a differential diagnosis for these patients. Although infectious causes of lymphadenopathy are more prevalent in the pediatric population compared with adults, neoplasms should also be considered. Judicious use of imaging studies, namely ultrasound, can provide valuable information for accurate diagnosis. Common and uncommon infectious causes of cervical lymphadenopathy are reviewed. Surgical intervention is occasionally necessary for diagnosis and treatment of infections, and rarely indicated for the possibility of malignancy. Indications for surgery are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Arkansas Children's Hospital, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 1 Children's Way, Slot 836, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA.
authors.forename: Tara L
authors.initials: TL
authors.lastname: Rosenberg
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Arkansas Children's Hospital, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 1 Children's Way, Slot 836, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA. Electronic address: nolderabbyr@uams.edu.
authors.forename: Abby R
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Nolder
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D044963:Biopsy, Fine-Needle / Q000379:methods; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008198:Lymph Nodes / Q000473:pathology*; D008199:Lymphadenitis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D008206:Lymphatic Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D009333:Neck; D010372:Pediatrics; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods; D018570:Risk Assessment
keywords: Cervical lymphadenopathy; Differential diagnosis; Infectious; Neck mass; Pediatric