Differential Diagnosis for Unilateral Submandibular Swelling and Lymphadenopathy
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dental infection or abscess: This is often the most common cause of unilateral submandibular swelling and lymphadenopathy, typically resulting from a bacterial infection of a tooth or the surrounding tissues.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Sialadenitis (inflammation of the salivary gland): This condition can cause swelling and lymphadenopathy due to infection or obstruction of the salivary gland.
- Lymphoma: Although less common, lymphoma can present with lymphadenopathy and swelling in the submandibular region.
- Metastatic cancer: Cancers from other parts of the body can metastasize to the lymph nodes in the submandibular region, causing swelling and lymphadenopathy.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Tuberculosis (TB): Although rare in some regions, TB can cause lymphadenopathy and swelling in the submandibular region and is crucial to diagnose due to its public health implications and the need for specific treatment.
- Cat-scratch disease: Caused by Bartonella henselae, this infection can lead to significant lymphadenopathy and is important to consider, especially in individuals with a history of cat exposure.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can affect the salivary glands, leading to swelling and lymphadenopathy, although it typically presents bilaterally.
- Kimura disease: A rare, chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause lymphadenopathy and swelling in the head and neck region, including the submandibular area.
- Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease: A rare condition characterized by lymphadenopathy, often in the cervical region, and can be accompanied by swelling in the submandibular area.