Differential Diagnosis for Swollen Lymph Nodes on Posterior Neck
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral pharyngitis: This is often the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes in the posterior neck, especially in children and young adults. The justification for this diagnosis is the high prevalence of viral infections and their tendency to cause lymphadenopathy.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bacterial pharyngitis: Similar to viral pharyngitis, bacterial infections such as streptococcal pharyngitis can cause swollen lymph nodes in the posterior neck.
- Reactive lymphadenitis: This condition occurs as a reaction to an infection or inflammation in the body, which can cause lymph nodes to become swollen.
- Dermatological conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis): Skin conditions can lead to lymphadenopathy, especially if the condition is severe or widespread.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Although less common, lymphoma is a critical diagnosis that must not be missed, as it can present with swollen lymph nodes.
- Tuberculosis: TB can cause lymphadenopathy, particularly in the posterior neck, and is essential to diagnose due to its public health implications and the need for specific treatment.
- Metastatic cancer: Cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes can cause swelling and is crucial to identify for appropriate management.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition characterized by the growth of granulomas in various parts of the body, which can include the lymph nodes.
- Cat-scratch disease: Caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, this disease can lead to swollen lymph nodes, typically after a cat scratch or bite.
- Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic infection that can cause lymphadenopathy, although it is less common in immunocompetent individuals.
- Kikuchi disease: A rare condition of unknown cause that can present with lymphadenopathy, fever, and other systemic symptoms.