Cervical lymphadenopathy : Incidence and etiological study

Abstract

Cervical lymph node enlargement may be an incidental finding during general checkup or may be associated with a
patient's complaint. The condition is generally not a disease by itself; rather, it may be a symptom of one of many
possible underlying problems. It may be localized, limited or generalized in location and/ or acute, subacute or
chronic in duration. The etiologies for cervical lymphadenopathy fall under a wide range of spectrum and usually
history and physical examination alone may lead to diagnosis. But, unexplained cervical lymphadenopathy is a
cause of concern for the physician as it could be a manifestation of an underlying malignancy. However, a
methodological approach to lymphadenopathy can disclose the accurate diagnosis causing minimal discomfort to
the patient and also less time consuming for the physician.