Differential Diagnosis for Cervical Lymphadenopathy
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 once the underlying infection resolves.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tuberculosis: A significant cause of cervical lymphadenopathy, especially in endemic areas or in individuals with compromised immune systems. Diagnosis is often made through a combination of clinical presentation, imaging, and microbiological tests.
- Toxoplasmosis: An infection caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can lead to cervical lymphadenopathy, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
- Mononucleosis (infectious mononucleosis): Caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), this condition often presents with cervical lymphadenopathy, fever, and fatigue.
- Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma can present with cervical lymphadenopathy. Diagnosis requires biopsy and histopathological examination.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignancy (metastatic cancer): Cervical lymphadenopathy can be a sign of metastasis from various primary cancers, such as head and neck, lung, or breast cancer. Early detection is crucial for treatment and prognosis.
- HIV infection: Cervical lymphadenopathy can be an early sign of HIV infection. Identifying HIV early is critical for initiating antiretroviral therapy and preventing the progression to AIDS.
- Cat-scratch disease: Caused by Bartonella henselae, transmitted through cat scratches or bites. It can lead to significant lymphadenopathy and systemic symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease: A rare, self-limiting condition characterized by cervical lymphadenopathy, fever, and night sweats, more common in young Asian women.
- Kimura disease: A chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause cervical lymphadenopathy, often associated with eosinophilia and IgE elevation.
- Castleman disease: A rare lymphoproliferative disorder that can present with cervical lymphadenopathy, fever, and weight loss.
- Sarcoidosis: Although more commonly associated with pulmonary symptoms, sarcoidosis can occasionally present with cervical lymphadenopathy due to granulomatous inflammation.