Differential Diagnosis for Cervical Liquified Lymph Node

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Tuberculosis (TB): This is often considered the most likely diagnosis for a cervical liquified lymph node, especially in endemic areas. TB can cause caseous necrosis leading to liquefaction of lymph nodes.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Metastatic Cancer: Various cancers, particularly head and neck cancers, can metastasize to cervical lymph nodes and cause liquefaction due to tumor necrosis.
• Bacterial Infections: Infections such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus can cause abscess formation and liquefaction of lymph nodes.
• Cat Scratch Disease: Caused by Bartonella henselae, this disease can lead to lymphadenopathy and sometimes liquefaction of the affected nodes.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Lymphoma: Although less common, lymphomas can cause significant lymphadenopathy and, in rare cases, liquefaction of lymph nodes. Missing this diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment.
• HIV Infection: HIV can cause a variety of lymph node abnormalities, including liquefaction, due to opportunistic infections or the disease process itself.

Rare Diagnoses

• Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A rare, self-limiting condition that can cause cervical lymphadenopathy and sometimes liquefaction of the lymph nodes.
• Kimura Disease: A chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause lymphadenopathy and eosinophilia, rarely leading to liquefaction of lymph nodes.
• Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that can cause lymphadenopathy, and in some cases, liquefaction of the affected lymph nodes.