Management of mycobacterial cervical lymphadenitis

The treatment results of mycobacterial cervical lymphadenitis in 69 patients between 1990 and 1993 are reviewed. All patients underwent surgical procedures consisting of total excision or selective nodal dissection for lymphadenopathies and curettage for fluctuant cases, followed by antituberculous chemotherapy applied according to the likely or proved mycobacterial species. For this purpose, three or four drugs (including isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and streptomycin) were used for 12 to 18 months. The cure rate was 100% after a minimum follow-up of 3 years. Clinical features, treatment modes, and guidelines for management are discussed.