Pediatric Lymphadenopathy

Abstract

Lymphadenopathy (LAD) is common in children, and often nonpathologic, but requires a thorough evaluation with a detailed history and physical before being designated as "benign idiopathic." Cervical LAD is the most common location in children. History should focus on patient and lymph node characteristics and patient exposures, while physical should include characteristics of the lesion, evaluation of the region, and systemic findings. Based on these findings, a differential can be generated, which includes infectious, malignant, immunologic, or iatrogenic etiologies. Options for further testing include imaging (most often with ultrasound and/or chest radiograph), laboratory markers, and biopsy in rare instances.

Keywords: Cervical lymphadenopathy; Lymphadenopathy; Malignancy evaluation; Pediatric lymphadenopathy; Soft tissue masses.