Cervical Lymphadenopathy Differential Diagnosis
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Reactive lymphadenitis: This is the most common cause of cervical lymphadenopathy, often resulting from a viral upper respiratory tract infection. The lymph nodes typically return to normal size within a few weeks.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tuberculosis: A common cause of cervical lymphadenopathy worldwide, especially in endemic areas. It often presents with chronic lymphadenopathy, fever, and weight loss.
- Streptococcal or staphylococcal infections: Bacterial infections such as strep throat or skin infections can cause cervical lymphadenopathy.
- Mononucleosis: Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, it can lead to cervical lymphadenopathy, fever, and fatigue.
- Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic infection that can cause cervical lymphadenopathy, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can present with cervical lymphadenopathy. It is crucial to diagnose and treat promptly to improve prognosis.
- Metastatic cancer: Cervical lymphadenopathy can be a sign of metastasis from head and neck, lung, or other cancers. Early detection is vital for treatment and survival.
- HIV infection: Cervical lymphadenopathy can be an early sign of HIV infection, and prompt diagnosis is essential for initiating antiretroviral therapy.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic granulomatous disease that can cause cervical lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by other symptoms such as lung involvement and skin lesions.
- Kikuchi disease: A rare, self-limiting condition that causes cervical lymphadenopathy, fever, and night sweats, often affecting young women.
- Castleman disease: A rare lymphoproliferative disorder that can cause cervical lymphadenopathy, fever, and weight loss.
- Kimura disease: A rare, chronic inflammatory disorder that causes cervical lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by eosinophilia and IgE elevation.